Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) late Thursday.
This marks his return to Kenya amid increasing speculation regarding a potential presidential bid in the 2027 General Election. Matiang'i, who landed on a Qatar Airways flight from Washington, D.C., was met by prominent political figures, including Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba.
While refraining from immediate statements, Matiang'i acknowledged his safe arrival and indicated plans to address the nation at a later date. Matiang'i's return occurs at a crucial juncture in Kenya's political environment. The Jubilee Party has voiced its support for his candidacy, positioning him as a potential frontrunner for the upcoming elections. Secretary-General Kioni has stated that while Matiang'i is the party's preferred candidate, the selection of a coalition-backed nominee will require extensive consultations.
"We've settled on Matiang'i as our candidate. Not to mean that he becomes an eventual presidential candidate but a presidential candidate within the party who would then join others in coming up with one person who I believe as a coalition we will be able to back," Kioni said in February at the party's headquarters in Nairobi.
This endorsement aligns with growing support from Kisii leaders, including Senator Onyonka, who have publicly endorsed Matiang'i's potential candidacy. The former Cabinet Secretary’s political ambitions gained traction following the Gen Z-led protests in June 2024, which highlighted socio-economic issues.
His subsequent engagement with Canadian lobbying firm Dickens & Madison has further fueled speculation about strategic preparations for a presidential campaign. Prior to his return, Matiang’i worked for the World Bank in Washington, D.C., focusing on development initiatives in Latin America. Insiders suggest he intends to resign from this position to fully engage in Kenyan politics.