Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i recently made a significant return to the political scene with a highly anticipated tour of Kisii and Nyamira counties on May 2, 2025. The visit, which included stops in Kijauri, Keroka, Keumbu, and Kisii Town, drew massive crowds and marked the beginning of his nationwide campaign ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Key Highlights from Matiang’i’s Gusii Region Tour
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Massive Public Reception: Thousands of supporters turned out to welcome Matiang’i, waving placards and chanting slogans as his motorcade passed through various towns. In Kisii Town, the Capital Roundabout was transformed into a sea of red and green, the colors of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), signaling strong grassroots support.
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Political Endorsement and Leadership Role: During the tour, Matiang’i met with local leaders, including Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo. He also held a closed-door meeting with Gusii elders at his Simbauti Farm residence in Borabu, Nyamira County, to strategize for the day’s events.
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Presidential Bid Announcement: Addressing the enthusiastic crowds, Matiang’i announced his intention to run for president in 2027. He declared, “I am ready to be President of Kenya,” and revealed plans to resign from his World Bank assignment to focus on his campaign.
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Nationwide Tour Plans: Matiang’i outlined his plans to tour various regions across the country, including Rift Valley, Central, Eastern, Meru, Coast, and Western Kenya, to engage with citizens and build support for his presidential bid.
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Community Leadership Recognition: In addition to his political activities, Matiang’i has been recognized as the spokesman and elder of the Gusii community. This acknowledgment came after a meeting with top elected Gusii leaders, who endorsed him for the role, highlighting his influence and leadership within the community.
Matiang’i’s return to the political arena has been met with both enthusiasm and scrutiny. While his supporters view him as a unifying figure capable of leading the nation, some critics have questioned the timing of his presidential aspirations. Nevertheless, his tour of Kisii and Nyamira counties has undeniably set the stage for a dynamic political campaign leading up to the 2027 elections.
