NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has returned to Kenya, marking a pivotal step in his preparations for the 2027 presidential race. Matiang’i arrived in the country last evening after officially resigning from his international role in Washington, D.C., where he had been serving in a senior post.
Sources close to the former CS confirmed that his visit to the U.S. was solely to complete the handover process and finalize his exit from the role. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, now a prominent leader in the United Opposition coalition, confirmed Matiang’i’s resignation was procedural and aimed at ensuring a smooth leadership transition abroad.
Matiang’i’s return cements his commitment to the 2027 contest, having earlier declared his intention to vie for the presidency. He is expected to be the Jubilee Party’s presidential flagbearer, positioning himself as a key challenger to President William Ruto, who is seeking re-election.
Speaking at a Jubilee Party delegates meeting in Keumbu, Kisii County on April 6, Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni declared that Matiang’i had been formally endorsed to fly the party’s flag in the upcoming general election. He dismissed critics who question Matiang’i’s political ambitions due to legal hurdles.
“They accuse him and threaten him with charges, but even if they jail him, he remains our choice,” Kioni said, accusing rival factions of using divide-and-rule tactics to destabilize the community.
Matiang’i, who held several powerful positions under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, is expected to mobilize strong support from the former ruling coalition and key opposition groups as the race for 2027 begins to take shape.
