NAIROBI, Kenya-The Deputy Party Leader of the Jubilee Party, Dr Fred Matiang’i, has declared his intention to lead Kenya, promising sweeping changes in governance and management, if elected President in 2027.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV from his Karen home, Matiang’i said the country’s biggest challenge is not policy but execution.
“I am conscientiously seeking the opportunity to lead this country seriously. I promise Kenyans I will not make excuses,” he said, adding that Kenya needs a “fixer” to address systemic governance failures.
Governance and discipline at the centre
Matiang’i emphasised that discipline would be key to turning the country around, warning that without it, progress would remain elusive.
“Discipline is destiny. If we are not disciplined, we are not going to run a country,” he said, dismissing comparisons to developed nations without corresponding governance reforms.
He described the current state of affairs as one marked by impunity and law-breaking, arguing that leadership must focus on governing rather than personal interests.
“These guys asked for an opportunity to lead the country, not to loot it. Their president is elected to govern the country, not to own it,” he stated.
Criticism of government performance
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary criticised what he termed as poor decision-making and deployment within government, particularly in the education sector.
“There is nothing wrong with the curriculum; there is everything wrong with how it is being implemented,” he said, adding that ineffective execution undermines even well-designed policies.
Matiang’i argued that leadership failures have eroded public confidence in government institutions.
Pledge to restore public trust
Positioning himself as a reform-oriented leader, Matiang’i said his focus would be on rebuilding trust between citizens and the government.
“I think I will be able to make a difference. I am the real deal,” he said.
He further accused the current administration led by William Ruto of relying on public relations and propaganda instead of addressing key issues.
“When you raise questions, it is shrouded and covered in PR, propaganda, and lies,” he added.
Matiang’i’s remarks come amid growing political debate over governance, accountability, and leadership as the country looks ahead to the next general election cycle.
