Kenya, March 20 : Former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has received a boost after Gusii Elders endorsed him to be a candidate in the 2027 presidential race, declaring their support for his bid.
In a joint statement on Thursday, the elders, said his track record across various ministries demonstrates his capability to lead the country, citing his commitment to service delivery and governance.
Led by Former Kisii County Assembly Speaker David Kombo, highlighted Matiang’i’s performance in the administration of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, where he served in multiple key ministries.
“We, the leaders from South Mugirango Constituency, together with residents of the larger Gusii region, wish to publicly declare our unwavering support for Dr Fred Matiang’i as he seeks the high office of the President of the Republic of Kenya in the year 2027. As a son of the Gusii community and a proven servant of the Kenyan people, Matiang’i’s stellar track record speaks for itself,” Kombo said.
“His unmatched performance in the Uhuru Kenyatta administration showcased his dedication, competence, and vision for a better Kenya,” they noted.
The elders noted that Matiang’i spearheaded groundbreaking reforms that expanded digital access across the country, fostering innovation and improving government service delivery during his tenure, as the Cabinet secretary for the Ministry of ICT.
They said one of his most notable achievements was overseeing the grand digital migration of Kenya’s media industry and several government services.
They also insisted that at the Ministry of Education, he instituted strict reforms that restored credibility to the national examination system, ensuring integrity and meritocracy.
“He regularised the payment of school fees and capitation, streamlined school transport and improved the admission process for secondary schools and higher education institutions. The introduction and management of the Edu Afya medical cover for students was another milestone in his tenure,” they said.
The elders praised Matiang’i for implementing measures that enhanced national security during his time as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Coordination. They said the former CS streamlined government operations and instilled a culture of accountability and efficiency in one of the most complex ministries in government.
Azimio Coalition and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party leader Raila Odinga recently was on the receiving end of the citizenry at Gusii Stadium when he graced the Shabana FC kits launch.
Chants of "Raila must go!" "Ruto Must Go!" echoed through the stadium as sections of the crowd expressed their discontent at the Former Prime Minister, in a region he has often enjoyed support.
The event highlighted growing frustrations among the Abagusii community and other Kenyans who feel alienated from the current political landscape. Many voiced their support for former CS Fred Matiang’i, signaling a shift in political allegiance and dissatisfaction at the Former PM for dismissing Matiang'i's bid.
Speaking on Thursday, March 6, after holding a consultative meeting in Kisii County, Raila said Matiang’i cannot be elected solely based on support from his ethnic community.
The former premier noted that Matiang’i would need the support of the whole country for him to be elected as Head of State.
“There is nothing like a community producing a candidate. You cannot be elected the President of Kenya on the basis of Kisii votes, Luo votes, Luhya votes, or even Mount Kenya votes. If you want to be elected, you will be elected by Kenyans generally,” Raila stated.
The ODM leader also pointed out that Matiang’i is yet to publicly declare his presidential bid, adding that they will address that matter when the time is right.
“That is something we will deal with when the right time comes. Mr Matiang’i has not yet come out to speak and clarify that he wants to run for the presidency,” Raila added.
However, on January 25, former President Uhuru Kenyatta's Jubilee Party endorsed Matiang’i as its presidential candidate in the 2027 general election.
Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni urged the leaders to start mass grassroots registration of Jubilee party members to ensure Matiang’i clinches the top seat.
“Fred Matiang’i is the one they are saying is in Jubilee. He worked with the party for 10 years. So, we as the Jubilee party have our own candidate, Fred Matiang’i. He will face off with other candidates to ensure President William Ruto goes home. You have to start registrations and send the message to the people, and we don’t want fights,” Kioni remarked.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka also, while attending the launch of Martha Karua’s People’s Liberation Party (PLP), announced that Matiang’i is expected to resign from his position at the World Bank and return to Kenya.
