Nairobi, Kenya – August 15, 2025 – Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has returned to Kenya after a high-profile tour of the United States that saw him woo diaspora communities, rally political support, and boldly declare his 2027 presidential bid.
Matiang’i landed in Nairobi early Wednesday and headed straight to his Karen home, marking the start of what political observers see as his most active campaign phase yet.
While addressing Kenyans in Baltimore City, the former powerful CS made an impassioned plea to the diaspora to take an active role in shaping the nation’s future.
“I am a presidential candidate in 2027. I want you to join me in making Kenya great again. We cannot build the future of Kenya without the diaspora,” Matiang’i said, promising a transparent, accountable, and people-centered government.
Drawing on his decade-long Cabinet experience—four of those years as the government’s chief coordinator—Matiang’i claimed he had the skills to manage the country more effectively than the current administration.
During his US stay, Matiang’i held a closed-door meeting in Maryland with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, fueling speculation about possible political alliances ahead of the 2027 race.
Gachagua later confirmed the meeting, saying:
“We discussed several issues affecting our country and our liberation cause. Our focus remains strong, and our commitment to the people of Kenya is unwavering.”
Coincidentally, Gachagua—now the leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)—has also cut short his US political tour, citing the need to spearhead grassroots campaigns ahead of the November 27, 2025 by-elections.
While abroad, Gachagua made controversial statements accusing President William Ruto’s administration of security lapses and alleged collusion with Al-Shabaab—remarks that Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen dismissed as “reckless and dangerous.” Murkomen has since demanded that Gachagua record a statement with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
Matiang’i’s return marks his re-entry into the domestic political ring after years of working with global institutions like the World Bank since leaving office in 2022.
Analysts say the upcoming mini-polls will be a crucial litmus test for the opposition’s strength. A strong showing for Gachagua could cement his position as a key anti-Ruto force, while a decisive win for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) would tighten the President’s grip ahead of 2027.
With two political heavyweights back on Kenyan soil, the stage is set for an intense season of political maneuvering, unexpected alliances, and high-stakes battles.
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