Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has urged Kenyans not to lose hope in the country despite the current challenges.
Speaking during his homecoming tour at Gusii Stadium in Kisii, Matiang’i acknowledged that Kenya is facing serious challenges, but maintained that this should not cause Kenyans to turn against each other.
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“I know that when a country faces challenges — as we do now — we must be honest about it. Let us not pretend; the challenges we face are serious,” said Matiang’i to a crowd gathered at the Gusii Stadium.
“We may be tempted to insult one another, fight, and end up destroying our own country. My fellow citizens, I beg you — let us not lose hope in our country.”
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He asked Kenyans to live in peace, emphasizing that Kenya is a nation built on resilience.
“With all the problems we are facing, let us join hands and stand together. When the time comes, we will cross the bridge and move forward, and with God’s help, we will fix the mess so that our country can be alright,” he added.
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Fred Matiang’i embarked on a meet-the-people tour in Kisii and Nyamira counties, marking his first major public appearance since his return.
The move also comes amid speculations on his intention to run for the presidency in the 2027 General Election in a move to unseat President William Ruto.
Matiang’i Says He Is Ready to Work with Like-Minded Leaders
His public tour follows a key political meeting in Nairobi that included Matiang’i and other opposition leaders led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, pointing to the early formation of a new alliance aiming to unseat President William Ruto.
His homecoming tour, organised by the Team Matiang’i Secretariat, brought together Gusii leaders, including Governors Simba Arati (Kisii) and Amos Nyaribo (Nyamira), Senators Momoima Onyonka and Okong’o Omogeni, as well as several MPs and MCAs.
Speaking during his first stopover at Nyansiongo, just three kilometres from his home, former CS Matiang’i signalled his readiness to join forces with other leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Allow me to join with other like-minded leaders and work together towards this course. I have listened and accepted what Kenyans want. When the right time comes, I will come back here and tell you what’s next,” he said.
Matiang’i stated that he will hold a countrywide tour to all regions in the country including Western region, Eastern region, Central region, Northeastern region and the Coast.
Also Read: Matiang’i Unveiled Alongside Heavyweights Seeking to Send Ruto Home
Here’s a timeline of what transpired during Matiang’i’s maiden tour
A mammoth crowd turned out to welcome Matiang’i on May 2 forcing him to shift his planned address from the Kisii Capital Roundabout to Gusii Stadium.
1:15 PM: Fred Matiang’i at Chepilat Market in Nyamira county, where he stopped to greet residents who had turned out in large numbers to welcome him.
2:00PM: Kisii Governor Simba Arati, on May 2, 2025, welcomes Mating’i at Kisii County government offices.
3:05 PM: Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba: “We too have said we are going in. We are looking for a house where women will enter.”
3:10PM: Residents who had gathered at Gusii Stadium to listen to former CS Fred Matiang’i couldn’t hesitate to chant “Ruto Must Go” shortly after Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka took the microphone.
The lawmaker was forced to halt his speech as the voices continued to fill the air. Onyonka resorted to dancing to a song that was played to calm the residents.
Also Read: Matiang’i Jets Back into Kenya Amid 2027 Presidential Bid Speculations
Arati Asks Matiang’i to Stay Focused
3:15 PM: Governor Simba Arati says the crowd came out to see Matiang’i and it has not been paid. He urged Matiang’i to make a countrywide tour and ensure he speaks with all leaders across Kenya.
Arati urged the former CS not to be distracted and stay focused that they can sent Ruto home.
“Today, Matiang’i has come to see the people from his home. Matiang’i, these people are not even paid a penny to come here,” he said.
“There are other people who will come, including the sitting President. I want you please to refocus, don’t be distracted, and don’t look back.”
3:45 PM: “The real decision-makers in this presidential race are you Kenyans, your ID, and your voter’s card,” Matiang’i.
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