KITUI, Kenya – Former Internal Security Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i was spotted in Kitui County today, Friday, December 20, 2024.
His visit to the Eastern Kenya county comes amid reports and speculations that he will be vying for the Presidential seat in the 2027 General Election.
In photos seen by Y News, Matiang’i appeared to excite Kitui residents as he bought food after condoliing with the family of his former bodyguard, Christopher Wambua.
Wambua who passed on in September is a native of Katulani village where Matiang’i had gone to condole with his family after serving him for 10 years.
The former CS made stop overs in different parts of the county, where he interacted with locals and hawkers along Kitui-Machakos road.
Matiang’i was captured while surrounded by throngs of mama mbogas and local traders. The outspoken lawmaker appeared happy as he stopped by the roadside to buy fruits and local goods.
Since Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka declared his desire to become president, Matiang’i’s visit to Ukambani, which is thought to be his political bastion, appears to have stoked political ire.
On July 29, 2024, the former CS hired the Canadian lobbying firm Dickens & Madson to assist him in his 2027 presidential candidacy.
According to documents seen by Y News, Matiang’i will pay a retainer of $250,000 (Sh 32.3 million) in addition to the $65,000 (KSh 8.4 million) down payment that was made at the time of the arrangement.
Another candidate interested in succeeding President William Ruto is Senator Okiya Omtatah of Busia.