NAIROBI, Kenya- Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati has sent political shockwaves across the country after he joined thousands of supporters in welcoming former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i at a series of rallies in Kisii and Nyamira counties.
Arati’s unexpected appearance has sparked speculation of a brewing political realignment in the Gusii region, and raised eyebrows within ODM circles, where loyalty to party leader Raila Odinga has historically been unquestioned.
Matiang’i, who had taken a back seat from the political limelight after the 2022 general election, appears to be staging a calculated comeback—this time with a clear eye on the presidency in 2027.
ODM Simba Arati welcomes Matiang’i.
The former powerful minister is consolidating his support base at home before expanding his influence nationally, insiders say.
“Fred Matiang’i is no longer just a technocrat. He is now a political force. What we witnessed in Kisii was not just a welcome—it was a coronation,” a youth leader from Kisii County told Y News.
ODM MP Caleb Amisi declared the Gusii rally a “warning shot” to President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The warm reception for Matiang’i, complete with chants, placards, and enthusiastic crowds, stood in stark contrast to the political silence he has maintained over the past two years.
But his re-entry into the fray comes at a time when the country’s political landscape is restless, and opposition figures are realigning.
There is growing speculation that Matiang’i could be fronted as a unity candidate by a new opposition alliance that includes Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
If endorsed, he would pose a serious threat to President Ruto, who is seeking a second and final term in office amid growing public dissatisfaction.
Ruto’s Youth Problem
Ruto’s presidency is facing mounting hostility, particularly from the youth, following the 2024 protests against a controversial Finance Bill that many saw as punitive and exploitative.
The demonstrations, led largely by Gen Z activists, turned tragic when security forces cracked down, killing more than 60 mostly peaceful protesters.
“He has a huge political debt with this generation. These are wounds that won’t be forgotten by 2027,” said political analyst Kipkoech Ngetich.
Matiang’i’s calculated silence during those protests earned him respect from a segment of the public that saw other politicians either cheerleading or cowardly disappearing.
Now, his reemergence has left critics scrambling for explanations.
Political Fallout and Reactions
Arati’s involvement, however, was the real plot twist.
“Simba Arati is Raila’s deputy in ODM. For him to be seen rallying behind Matiang’i is not just symbolic—it’s seismic,” said political commentator Nerima Wako.
“It could suggest ODM is either fragmenting or positioning itself for a broader coalition strategy.”
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, a staunch ally of Ruto, was quick to read betrayal into the situation.
“Kisii people have officially dumped both Raila Odinga and William Ruto,” Khalwale posted on X (formerly Twitter), triggering a flurry of reactions.
Former CS Fred Matiangi in Kisii today. The Abagusi have now formerly parted ways with @WilliamsRuto and @RailaOdinga. 2027 is cooking
But South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro, a Kenya Kwanza loyalist, dismissed the event as mere theatrics, ridiculing Matiang’i as “a man who runs when things get tough.”
“Where was he when we were facing political storms? Now he wants to ride on sympathy and populism? It won’t work,” a political activist allied to ODM charged.
Former Nairobi Senator Millicent Omanga echoed the disbelief.
The pressure creases!
Yet to many in the Gusii region, Matiang’i’s return signals a rekindled hope.
“He protected us when he was Interior CS. He was firm, fearless, and fair. If he says he wants to lead, we will walk with him,” said Josephine Nyanchama, a youth leader in Kisii.
What About Raila?
ODM party leader Raila Odinga has yet to declare his 2027 plans.
Whether Arati was acting with Raila’s blessing or testing the waters independently remains unclear.
“Matiang’i may not have spoken much, but his body language said it all. He is back—and this time, he’s gunning for the top seat,” another resident of Kisii County said.
The coming months are likely to clarify the political alliances forming ahead of 2027.
“NO PAID CROWDS”- Kisii Governor Simba Arati could not hide his joy following former CS Fred Matiangi’s warm reception at Gusii Stadium
