Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has made a significant political move by appearing at a high-stakes opposition meeting in Nairobi on April 29, marking his first public engagement with fomer Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s camp. The meeting, also attended by Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, NARC-Kenya’s Martha Karua, and DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, signalled an intensified effort by opposition leaders to craft a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This development ends months of speculation over Matiang’i’s political allegiance following his quiet return to Kenya from the United States. While he has largely preferred private consultations with regional and national leaders, his presence at the Nairobi meeting underscores his readiness to re-enter the political arena.
Gachagua, who has declared his interest in the presidency, reiterated his commitment to a unified opposition, promising that the eventual flagbearer will be chosen through scientific polling and consensus. “Even if I am not selected, I will support whoever we agree on,” he said during an April 27 interview on Weru TV.
The meeting is part of a broader strategy by opposition leaders to unseat President William Ruto. Gachagua is expected to unveil his political vehicle next month to consolidate support in the Mt. Kenya region. Meanwhile, Kalonzo, Karua, and Wamalwa have all hinted at interest in the top seat but are reportedly open to backing a consensus candidate.
Matiang’i, long considered a technocrat with deep administrative experience, has not publicly declared his 2027 ambitions. However, insiders suggest a major turning point may come next week when Gusii community elders are expected to formally install him in a symbolic ceremony at Gusii Stadium. The event is likely to draw national attention and could be the platform for Matiang’i to officially launch his political comeback.
As the opposition builds momentum, this unity effort marks a critical moment in Kenya’s political landscape one that could reshape the battle lines ahead of the next general election.
