Lawyer Miguna Miguna has addressed reports attributed to him that he has endorsed former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i to vie for the presidency.
A digital card made the rounds on social media purporting to quote Miguna seeking to make peace with Matiang'i and also blessing him to run for the president's seat.
The writings also claimed Miguna sought an apology from Matiang'i in regards to the happenings in 2018 when the former Interior CS reportedly oversaw the attack in Miguna's home and later his deportation to Canada.
Setting the record straight, the fiery lawyer currently based in Ontario, Canada, refuted the claims, denying making such statements.
Miguna flagged the digital card as bearing false statements that never originated from him.
The lawyer often references the atrocities he faced in 2018 after commissioning an oath to then opposition leader Raila Odinga, who had been defeated in the 2017 presidential election by former president Uhuru Kenyatta.
According to him, his sufferings, crowned by his unceremonious deportation, were sanctioned by Matiang'i, who was the Interior Cabinet Secretary at that time.
Miguna's remarks come days after the Former Interior Cabinet Secretary announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview, Matiang'i explained that his decision to run for the top seat was informed by the growing public frustration, a breakdown in trust between citizens and government, and what he termed as a lack of clear national direction.
“Kenya doesn’t need a saviour or ruler. It needs an honest, hardworking, consensus-building leader who can restore trust and guide the country forward. That’s the kind of leadership I want to offer,” he said.
“The level of pain and misery in the country is alarming considering our resources and capacity. When I talk to school principals and parents, I see frustration because there’s no clear direction in policy or support. That should not be the case.”
Matiang’i, who served in Cabinet for nearly 10 years, said he has a deep understanding of how government works and believes he can contribute meaningfully to fixing the country’s governance failures.
“I happen to know government like the back of my hand. I’ve worked with civil servants and private sector players across many sectors and crises. I know what our country is capable of,” he said.
The former CS said his recent political activity in Kisii County, his home region, should not be interpreted as ethnic mobilisation but rather a return to his roots following time away from public life.
“When I arrived back in the country, I went home. That’s common practice the world over. Everyone comes from somewhere. Even in the U.S., every presidential candidate works from their state—Bill Clinton from Arkansas, Obama from Chicago, Biden from Delaware. That’s what I did. I just went to my state,” he said.
He dismissed suggestions that his Kisii presence signals exclusivity or ethnic preference in his political plans.
“We chose democracy, not because it’s perfect, but because the alternative is horrendous. People are free to belong where they choose politically. Multiplicity of political expression is healthy for the country,” he said.
On remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua suggesting that he should build a strong base in Kisii before engaging in national coalition talks, Matiang’i said the statement was a personal opinion and not binding.
“That was Gachagua’s personal opinion. He didn’t pass a law. If we are to work together, we’ll sit down and talk. I prefer not to comment based on press quotes. If I need to understand someone’s position, I’ll talk to them directly. Politics must allow room for dialogue,” he said.
Matiang’i also clarified his role within the opposition coalition, stating that efforts are currently focused on building relationships, engaging widely with the public and agreeing on a shared platform.
“We are just beginning. Some people are still forming parties. It’s premature to declare concrete positions. This is a time for engagement, listening, and relationship-building. Elections are still over two years away,” he said.
Matiang’i, stated that he is not currently aligned with any political party as he continues consultations with various leaders and groups.
He said he is holding broad consultations with political leaders and parties across the country and will only commit to a political vehicle after inclusive discussions have taken place.
“I am not a member of any political party yet. If I joined one now, I would disadvantage others I’m in discussions with. Several political parties have approached me to be their candidate. I feel flattered, but I don’t want to close the door on anyone. I want comprehensive and inclusive conversations.” said Matiang’i.
