Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has resurfaced in Kenya’s political landscape, participating in a strategic meeting with senior opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, as discussions intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
Held in Nairobi on April 29, the closed-door meeting marked Matiang’i’s first known collaboration with Gachagua’s circle, quietly putting to rest speculation about his political leanings. The meeting is one of several high-level consultative sessions that the opposition is conducting in an effort to shape a formidable coalition before the next general election.
Among those in attendance were Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, NARC-Kenya's Martha Karua, DAP-K's Eugene Wamalwa, and former Cabinet Secretaries Mukhisa Kituyi, Mithika Linturi, and Justin Muturi. The growing list of attendees signals a wider effort to unify voices critical of the current administration.
Although Matiang’i recently returned from the United States, he has yet to confirm his presidential aspirations or publicly address his political plans. Insiders reveal that he has been meeting with key national and regional leaders behind the scenes, preferring discreet engagements over public rallies for now.
Gachagua, speaking to Weru TV on April 27, shared that the meeting aimed to solidify the opposition’s cohesion. He expressed confidence in the group’s ability to field a single presidential candidate through data-driven consensus.
“There’s no need to fear divisions,” Gachagua stated. “We are each presenting ourselves to the public, but in the end, we will agree on one candidate to take on Ruto in 2027. If I’m not the one, I will back the team’s choice.”
Gachagua, who has made clear his intention to contest the presidency, is expected to launch his new political vehicle next month, a platform he says will help galvanize support in his Mt. Kenya stronghold.
Meanwhile, Matiang’i’s next steps remain closely watched. A major event scheduled at Gusii Stadium in the coming days is expected to see him formally recognized by elders from the Gusii community—an endorsement that could hint at deeper ambitions.
As the opposition intensifies its early preparations, observers note that the political landscape is gradually taking shape, with new alliances forming and old rivalries being reassessed.
