Matiang’i Declares Support for Raila Ahead of 2022 Elections

Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has reiterated his support for ODM leader Raila Odinga ahead of next year’s elections.

Speaking in Kisumu County on Thursday, Matiang’i said his support for Odinga is informed by President Kenyatta’s faith in the ODM leader to lead the country in the right direction. He further told off his critics, stating that he does not need anyone’s permission to endorse Odinga’s 2022 presidential bid.

"Tumekubaliana sisi wote na mzee wetu Prime Minister Raila Odinga ndiye anatuongoza na tumekubaliana safari hii, sisi watu wa Nyanza tutasimama pamoja kama mtu mmoja,” the CS said.

“Sasa nikisema hivyo nimefanya makosa? Na mimi sijakuuliza wewe unipee ruhusa ya kusimama pamoja na Raila ama Rais Kenyatta... President Kenyatta is my boss na ni yeye amenipea kazi nifanye. Akiamuru vile tunaenda, it is logical kama waziri wake wa usalama mimi napiga laini mahali rais amepiga laini.”

At the same time, Matiang’i slammed Deputy President William Ruto and his allies for taking credit for projects delivered by President Kenyatta, describing them as political hypocrites.

“There can never be two centres of power and anyone else taking credit for government projects or claiming to have influenced major infrastructure development is a hypocrite and engaging in political conmanship,” he said.

He also dismissed Ruto’s claims that the handshake between the president and Odinga affected the delivery of government projects and initiatives. “I personally support the handshake both as a presidential undertaking and because of its evident benefits to the country and I have no apologies to make to anyone,” he added.

Matiang’i spoke during the operationalization of the Central Nyakach division where he was also crowned as a Luo elder.