Two sons of the Gusii community have declared their interest in unseating President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, a move that could reshape opposition politics.Former Chief Justice David Maraga and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i share several similarities.

Both hail from Nyamira County, both are staunch Seventh day Adventists (SDA) adherents and neither has ever contested a political seat in Kenya.

Lacking the deep financial resources typically needed to mount a presidential campaign, the two are reportedly relying on well wishers to help realize their ambitions. 

The two are known for their firm and distinct approaches to leadership. Maraga’s most notable legacy is the historic nullification of former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s 2017 election victory, during which Matiang’i served as the Cabinet Secretary.

Ironically, Matiang’i is also remembered for defying court orders issued under Maraga’s tenure as Chief Justice. 

Now, both have stepped into the murky world of politics, eyeing significant roles in the 2027 elections. Their simultaneous entry, analysts say, has thrown the Gusii community into a dilemma, unsure of whom to rally behind.

Both leaders have demonstrated a no nonsense character on various fronts. In 2020, for instance, Maraga advised Uhuru to dissolve Parliament for failing to pass the two thirds gender rule, a bold move that threatened to make all 418 lawmakers, including 349 in the National Assembly and 67 in the Senate, jobless.

In 2018, in a brazen defiance of High Court orders, Matiang’i insisted the government would continue shutting down television stations  indefinitely, pending investigations into their role in the ‘swearing-in’ of ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Justice Chacha Mwita had issued the orders in a case filed by Royal Media Services and the Africa Digital Network (ADN) on the same day three NTV journalists secured court orders against arrest during a media crackdown.

Still political experts argue that both Maraga and Matiang’i lack the political oomph and charisma often needed to galvanise the masses. They are seen as falling short of the electrifying charm and populist appeal required to command crowds and inspire a national movement.

One of the key differences between the two lies in their age and political approach. Maraga is 74, while Matiang’i is 57. Their political strategies are equally contrasting. Maraga is leaning heavily on the Gen-Z wave, having branded himself a “Gen-Z candidate,” while Matiang’i has aligned himself with the ‘United Opposition’ led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Maraga seeks to tap into the tribe-less movement—a popular Gen-Z slogan on social media pushing for accountability and rejecting ethnic politics.

In contrast, Matiang’i is following the traditional political path: mobilising his community base before forming alliances with other like-minded leaders from across the country to build a coalition with a national outlook. Maraga presents himself as a humble, principled leader, while pundits describe Matiang’i as combative and arrogant, an image he rejects, insisting he has maintained good working relationships with government officials.

According to political experts, the presidential ambitions of Maraga and Matiang’i could have significant implications especially for ODM leader Raila Odinga, who has long enjoyed strong support from the Gusii community and the broader opposition base.“The only way to secure the  Gusii vote is by offering them either the presidential or running mate slot. That could mark a political awakening for the region,” said political observer John Moseti.

“However, if that doesn’t materialize in the opposition’s power-sharing deal, Raila still stands a good chance of retaining their support.”

Other analysts argue that neither Maraga nor Matiang’i has convincingly communicated their commitment to the presidency.

Political risk analyst Dismas Mokua says Maraga’s main selling point is his reputation as a defender of the rule of law, though his campaign lacks momentum.

“Matiang’i, on the other hand, played a key role during the Uhuru-Ruto fallout, effectively chairing the Cabinet. Many viewed his performance as strong and capable. However, he hasn’t yet presented a clear political strategy,” Mokua said.

Advocate and governance analyst Ishmael Nyaribo notes that while Maraga is seen as principled and reserved, Matiang’i is viewed as a firm, results-driven administrator. Yet both carry political baggage.
“Maraga may wear the 2017 election nullification as a badge of honor, but some Uhuru loyalists haven’t forgiven him,” Nyaribo said.

“Matiang’i, too, must explain his past—especially his disregard for court orders and hardline tactics.”