NAIROBI – Fred Matiang’i is back in Kenya and officially in the race for State House. The former Interior Cabinet Secretary returned to Nairobi on Thursday night after stepping down from a senior international post in Washington, D.C., to focus fully on his 2027 presidential bid.
His return marks the formal start of his campaign, signaling the growing intensity of Kenya’s next electoral contest. Matiang’i had flown briefly to the United States earlier this week to finalize his resignation and facilitate a transition in his previous role.
According to United Opposition coalition leader Rigathi Gachagua, Matiang’i’s visit to the U.S. was solely to conclude his handover process. “He went to complete formalities. He is now back, and the campaign begins,” Gachagua said during a press briefing on Friday morning.
Matiang’i is expected to run on a Jubilee Party ticket, with strong backing from leaders aligned with the former ruling coalition. His nomination was confirmed in April by Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, who addressed party delegates during a meeting in Keumbu, Kisii County.
“Matiang’i has the party’s full mandate,” Kioni said. “Even if they throw him in jail, we will still choose him.”
Matiang’i served in several powerful Cabinet positions under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, including Education, ICT, and Interior. His track record in public service and reputation for decisiveness have positioned him as a serious contender against President William Ruto, who is seeking re-election.
The race is already shaping up to be highly contested. Jubilee insiders view Matiang’i as a unifying figure with a strong support base in Kisii and a potential to rally votes across opposition strongholds.
While the political landscape remains volatile, Matiang’i’s return shifts focus to a broader coalition-building effort. The opposition has been regrouping under the Azimio umbrella, with key figures like Raila Odinga expected to play kingmaker roles.
As the 2027 race gathers momentum, questions remain about the legal and political hurdles Matiang’i may face. However, his allies have dismissed any pending cases as politically motivated attempts to weaken his candidacy.
Matiang’i has yet to make a formal public address since landing but is expected to speak at a scheduled event in Kisii later this week. His campaign team is already setting up regional bases ahead of a nationwide tour.
His entry adds to a growing list of contenders challenging the Ruto administration, amid rising political friction and public debate over economic and governance issues.
