NAIROBI, Kenya — Dr. Fred Matiang’i wants to make one thing clear: he’s not here for political revenge, he’s here to clean up the mess.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary says his presidential bid in 2027 isn’t about settling old scores or paying back political debts—it’s about rolling up his sleeves and getting to work for a country he says is rich in potential but caught in the throes of poor leadership.
“If this country wants seriousness and delivery of services, I am one of the candidates they should look at very carefully,” Matiang’i told K24 in an interview on Monday.
“I have no scores to settle with anyone… I have no political debts… I am here for only one purpose—making the contribution to fix the challenges that face my country.”
This isn’t the first time Matiang’i has leaned into his technocratic image. Known for his no-nonsense style during the Uhuru Kenyatta administration, Matiang’i is pitching himself as a candidate of competence—not charisma—who can steer Kenya back toward economic stability and restore public trust in leadership.
Kenya, he argues, is not broken—it’s simply in need of a reset.
“These circumstances are meant to educate us and make us better people. We are a resilient country and this is what gives me hope and pride,” he said. “Kenya has a great capacity and we will rise again. Our future will be better.”
And while speculation continues to swirl around who the opposition will front as their 2027 flagbearer, Matiang’i isn’t sweating it.
He says internal dynamics are part of any growing coalition and confirmed that he’ll soon announce the political vehicle he’ll use to launch his campaign.
He’s already found common ground with other political heavyweights, including Martha Karua (People’s Liberation Party), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K), Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), and former Public Service CS Justin Muturi.
Even former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—now leading the Democracy for Citizens Party—is reportedly in the mix.
Together, they say they’re crafting a deliberate, unified strategy to oust President William Ruto in 2027.
But Matiang’i insists it’s not just about unseating the current administration—it’s about offering Kenyans a viable alternative focused on service, not sideshows.
Because for him, it’s not about winning arguments. It’s about winning back the country’s dignity.
