Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i is under pressure to solidify his 2027 presidential ambitions amid growing doubts over his campaign preparedness and political strategy. With less than two years to the polls, Matiang’i has yet to unveil a clear campaign team, name key officials, or set up offices to drive his presidential bid.
This week, Matiang’i sought to address these concerns, pushing back against claims that he is “Uhuru Kenyatta’s project.” Speaking on Spice FM’s State of the Nation show, he said it was dishonest for politicians to accuse him of being backed by the former President while simultaneously courting Uhuru’s support.
“As for whether I’m someone’s project, I cannot rewrite history. I served as a Cabinet Minister under President Uhuru Kenyatta,” Matiang’i said. “People will say I’m Uhuru’s project, yet they themselves are looking for the same Uhuru to talk to.”
On Thursday, Matiang’i took a major step forward after being named Jubilee Party’s deputy leader and presumptive presidential candidate—a move seen as a sign of renewed momentum in his political journey. Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni confirmed that the National Executive Committee had endorsed him to represent the party in the planned United Opposition alliance.
However, questions remain over his control of the former ruling party and whether he can consolidate support from his Kisii backyard. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently challenged him to “put his house in order,” questioning his regional backing.
Insiders reveal that plans are underway to have Matiang’i eventually take over as party leader, with his ally Kemosi Mogaka tipped to replace Kioni as secretary general. Borabu MP Patrick Osero, a close ally, welcomed his appointment, saying it would help unify Uhuru’s and Matiang’i’s support bases ahead of 2027.
Still, some MPs allied to him warn that the slow pace in building his campaign structures could cost him valuable goodwill and political momentum.
