Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i embarked on a meet-the-people tour in Kisii and Nyamira counties, marking his first major public appearance since his return.
Speaking on Friday, May 2, 2025 at Gusii Stadium in Kisii, Matiang’i acknowledged that Kenya is facing serious challenges, but maintained that this should not cause Kenyans to turn against each other.
“I know that when a country faces challenges — as we do now — we must be honest about it. Let us not pretend; the challenges we face are serious. We may be tempted to insult one another, fight, and end up destroying our own country. My fellow citizens, I beg you — let us not lose hope in our country." said Matiang'i.
“With all the problems we are facing, let us join hands and stand together. When the time comes, we will cross the bridge and move forward, and with God’s help, we will fix the mess so that our country can be alright,” he added.
His public tour follows a key political meeting in Nairobi that included Matiang’i and other opposition leaders led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, pointing to the early formation of a new alliance aiming to unseat President William Ruto.
Speaking during his first stopover at Nyansiongo, just three kilometres from his home, former CS Matiang’i signalled his readiness to join forces with other leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Allow me to join with other like-minded leaders and work together towards this course. I have listened and accepted what Kenyans want. ” he said.
Matiang’i stated that he will hold a countrywide tour to all regions in the country including Western region, Eastern region, Central region, Northeastern region and the Coast.
His homecoming tour, organised by the Team Matiang’i Secretariat, brought together Gusii leaders, including Governors Simba Arati (Kisii) and Amos Nyaribo (Nyamira), Senators Momoima Onyonka and Okong’o Omogeni, as well as several MPs and MCAs.
The Former Interior Cs, also declared his intention to unseat President William Ruto in the upcoming polls.
He announced that he had finally decided to pursue the country’s top seat following numerous requests from Kenyans.
“I am ready to be President of Kenya,” Matiang’i declared as the crowd erupted in cheers.
He announced that he would now resign from his World Bank assignment and officially begin his 2027 presidential bid.
“You have asked me to come and serve this country. Do you want me to leave that job and come back to serve you? I will now resign officially, with respect, and come back to Kenya to serve my country,” he said.
“As you know, I have no problem executing any job, whether at night or during the day — that won’t be a problem,” he added, urging the Gusii community to register as voters ahead of 2027.
