Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has returned to Kenya after months of residing in the United States. Matiang’i landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Thursday night aboard a Qatar Airways flight. His arrival has reignited speculation about his political future, particularly a potential presidential run in the 2027 elections.
Matiang’i was received by a delegation of political allies, including Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba. Although he did not address the press, Matiang’i reportedly expressed gratitude for a safe journey. Sources indicate that he intends to speak to the nation at a later date, fueling further intrigue around his plans.
Matiang’i’s return comes amid growing support from the Jubilee Party, with key party figures endorsing him as a presidential candidate. Kioni, a staunch ally, has been vocal about the party’s readiness to back Matiang’i in 2027. Speaking during a Jubilee Party delegates meeting in Kisii on April 6, Kioni confirmed that Matiang’i has the green light to lead the party into the upcoming elections. He also dismissed efforts to undermine Matiang’i’s political ambitions, warning that attempts to block him would ultimately fail.
Kioni’s sentiments were echoed by Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni, who also expressed his support for Matiang’i’s bid for the presidency. The backing from influential figures within the Jubilee Party signals that Matiang’i is positioning himself as a key contender for the 2027 presidential race.
Matiang’i, once a powerful figure in former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government, has kept a low profile since the 2022 general election, which saw President William Ruto emerge victorious. His extended stay abroad fueled speculation about his political future, but his return has now placed him back at the center of Kenya’s political discourse.
While Matiang’i has not publicly confirmed his presidential aspirations, the growing momentum within Jubilee and the backing from key political players suggest that he may be gearing up for a significant political comeback.
