NAIROBI, Kenya — Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service Geoffrey Mosiria has advised former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i to align himself with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election, arguing that cooperation with the current administration could benefit both Kisii leaders and the region at large.
Speaking on Saturday, December 14, during an event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Mosiria said Matiang’i could find a place in government after the 2027 polls if he chose to work with President Ruto.
Mosiria pointed to the improving relations between President Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta as a political opening that could pave the way for Matiang’i’s return to government.
“I have seen that Uhuru has given our brother Matiang’i the number two position, and if things continue this way, because Uhuru and the President are friends, I can see our brother Matiang’i even being part of the government in 2027,” Mosiria said. “The President and Matiang’i should work together so that Kisii can move forward.”
Addressing Matiang’i directly, Mosiria added: “Matiang’i, if you are watching me, work closely with President Ruto so that Kisii can progress.”
Mosiria’s remarks come against the backdrop of shifting political alignments as the 2027 race begins to take shape. Matiang’i is currently part of the United Opposition coalition, which brings together key figures including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc-Kenya’s Martha Karua, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Attorney General Justin Muturi, and ex-Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.
Despite his opposition links, Matiang’i has openly declared interest in contesting the presidency in 2027 and has already begun laying the groundwork for a national campaign.
On October 30, the Jubilee Party formally endorsed Matiang’i as its presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election and appointed him Deputy Party Leader. The decision was made during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and announced by Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni.
“We have received and formally accepted Dr Fred Matiang’i’s application for his presidential bid, and the NEC has agreed that he carries our flag,” Kioni said. “We have also appointed Matiang’i as our Deputy Party Leader going forward.”
Matiang’i served as Interior Cabinet Secretary during the Uhuru Kenyatta administration and was regarded as one of the most powerful figures in the previous government.
Since leaving office, he has kept a relatively low public profile, resurfacing more prominently in recent months as opposition leaders intensify consultations ahead of 2027.
Mosiria’s comments underscore the growing debate within Kenyan politics over alliances, reconciliation and regional interests as early manoeuvring for the next General Election gathers pace.
