Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has declared his intention to run for president in the 2027 General Election.
Making his announcement in Kisii on Friday, April 2, Matiang’i said he was responding to a groundswell of calls urging him to join the race.
It was his first public appearance in the region since exiting government in 2022.
Speaking to a packed Gusii Stadium, Matiang’i told the cheering crowd that he was ready for the task ahead, but first sought their endorsement.
“When I finished my work in the past regime, I left the country to continue with another assignment. But the kind of overwhelming invitations I received over the times I have been away are such a great force that propelled me to come back. Will you support me on my way up?” he asked.
He then delivered a firm declaration of intent stating: “I have spoken it now from my own mouth. I am ready.”
Matiang’i was flanked by a number of local leaders, including Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, who publicly backed his bid.
Fred Matiang’i kicks off Gusii region tour with stopover in Kijauri, Nyamira, he will be in a day-long meet-the-people tour as he lays ground for a possible 2027 presidential bid.
Video By Sammy Omingo pic.twitter.com/Gla5iGpayC
— The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) May 2, 2025
Also present were key allies of President William Ruto from the Gusii region — North Mugirango MP and Chair of Gusii Parliamentarians Joash Nyamoko, Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba, and former West Mugirango MP Vincent Kemosi — whose attendance added a twist to the otherwise ODM-leaning crowd.
The event, which took the form of roadshows across Nyamira and Kisii counties, marked a significant political re-entry for Matiang’i.
