How Ruto Is Working to Sideline Matiang’i in Gusii

President William Ruto is stepping up efforts to consolidate political support in Kisii and Nyamira counties, seeking to weaken former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s influence in the Gusii region ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Over the past year, the President has steadily expanded his presence in Gusii politics through a combination of alliances, defections and grassroots organisation. He has worked with established local leaders, including Kisii Governor Simba Arati of ODM, while strengthening the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) by recruiting MPs, former opposition figures and regional organisers. 

Key figures now associated with UDA in the region include South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro, Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi, Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke. One of the earliest high-profile defections was that of Kisii Woman Representative Dorice Donya Aburi, who left Wiper after winning more than 190,000 votes in the 2022 election. 

More recently, Jonah Onkendi, a former Jubilee Party official and close ally of Matiang’i, joined UDA, citing dissatisfaction with Matiang’i’s leadership style. His exit reflected growing unease among some politicians who feel excluded from Matiang’i’s national political plans.

Other leaders who have shifted their allegiance include Kitutu Masaba MP Daniel Manduku, West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka and ODM’s Irene Mayaka. Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri has taken a prominent role in grassroots mobilisation, frequently highlighting her long-standing relationship with the President. 

UDA has also been engaging influential figures outside elective office, such as former Kisii County secretary Alfred Ong’era, while some aspiring candidates, including Wilkins Nyangweso, remain undecided. Despite these defections, recent electoral results have not favoured the ruling party. 

In by-elections held in November 2025, UDA lost in three wards across Kisii and Nyamira to the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), a regional party linked to Matiang’i and supported by Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo. UPA victories in Nyamaiya, Ekerenyo and Nyansiongo wards demonstrated Matiang’i’s continued local support, even after significant mobilisation and funding by the ruling party.

Matiang’i has accused the government of deliberately trying to undermine him politically in his home region. He claims that leaders are being offered incentives, public appointments and development projects to abandon him, while areas that resist face the risk of stalled government initiatives. Addressing supporters, he said the strategy was aimed at isolating him politically within Gusii.

He has also warned that sustained pressure could deepen public frustration in a region facing economic challenges. While calling for restraint, he said rising discontent could lead to confrontation if grievances are not addressed, adding that he would continue pursuing his political ambitions.

Allies of Matiang’i have echoed his position. Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka rejected approaches from the ruling camp, arguing that the political contest in Gusii is about values and the responsible use of public resources rather than party affiliation. He said he would remain committed to Matiang’i’s national agenda.