KISII, Kenya – Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i was met with a massive crowd in Kisii on May 2, forcing him to relocate his scheduled address from the Kisii Capital Roundabout to Gusii Stadium due to overwhelming support.
The streets surrounding Capital-Hospital Road were packed with thousands of supporters, bringing business in the bustling town to a halt as Matiang’i’s convoy made its way through.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati, who was hosting Matiang’i, made the announcement shortly after the rally began at the roundabout, urging the crowd to move to Gusii Stadium due to limited space.
“Because of the huge numbers, we have agreed to move to the stadium,” Arati told the crowd. “I am happy with the massive turnout to welcome our king, and due to limited space here, let’s all proceed to the stadium.”
Before addressing the crowd, Matiang’i paid a courtesy call to Governor Simba Arati at his Kisii office, followed by a closed-door meeting with other elected leaders.
The two leaders then made their way to the roundabout, where Matiang’i was greeted by thousands of supporters, marking his first major homecoming since returning from the United States.
The atmosphere in Kisii was electric, with supporters chanting and waving banners in support of the former CS.
Matiang’i’s visit is seen as a significant moment for the Gusii region, as it continues to stir speculation about his future political plans.
While speaking to Gusii residents at multiple stopovers along the Kisii-Sotik Road, Matiang’i acknowledged the growing curiosity surrounding his political future.
“I thank you for giving me the green light to sit down and engage with other leaders. When the right time comes, I will come back here and tell you what’s next,” he told ecstatic crowds at Nyansiongo Market.
Matiang’i hinted that he was taking time to listen to the people of his region before making any final political decisions.
“The time will come, and I will sit down with you so that we can agree, as a people, on the way forward,” he added.
The speculation about Matiang’i’s potential 2027 presidential bid has been mounting, especially after recent discussions with key opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Matiang’i’s homecoming tour of the Gusii region is seen as a significant step in his growing political influence, with many locals hopeful that he will offer leadership for the upcoming elections.
Matiang’i’s reception in Kisii is seen as a sign of strong support from his home region, where he has maintained a loyal following throughout his political career.
