A close ally of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has dismissed claims of ongoing negotiations with President William Ruto’s government. In a statement dated July 2, 2025, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka termed the reports as false, insisting there are no talks between the former CS and any government officials.
“There is no negotiation going on between Dr. Fred Matiang’i and anyone in government,” Onyonka stated.
He further stated that the individual claiming to speak on behalf of Dr. Matiang’i is an impostor.
Onyonka Denies Any Govt Negotiations with Matiang’i
At the same time, the Kisii Senator reaffirmed Matiang’i’s support for the opposition, noting that his stance is deliberate and not accidental. He also called on Kisii Governor Simba Arati to show respect to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“Let no one twist our resolve or speak ill of leaders we respect. Simba Arati’s reckless attacks on the former DP and other opposition figures do not represent the will of the Abagusii,” Onyonka stated.
Also Read: Matiang’i Warns Ruto on Handling Gen Z Protests
Onyonka also warned that Arati’s actions could undermine Matiang’i’s presidential ambitions and vowed to protect the former Interior CS’s reputation.
“If we are serious about Matiang’i’s presidential prospects, we must protect his name from such careless political sabotage,” he added.
Governor Arati Warns former DP Gachagua
The Senator’s remarks followed recent comments by Governor Arati, who dismissed Gachagua’s “Wantam” campaign efforts and claimed that the former DP should seek permission from Matiang’i to hold rallies in Kisii.
“They came here saying they want to hold a rally, calling it Wantam. Go away with your Wantam. Let me say this — if we are to hold a meeting in Kisii, it’s Matiang’i who should be inviting you, not the other way around. Hon. Gachagua, we respect you, you are our friend, but you must show us respect here in Kisii. We will deal with you as an equal, nothing more.”
Arati also recalled how his security was once withdrawn, and the then-Deputy President allegedly responded by advising him to “behave” so that it could be reinstated.
Also Read: Matiang’i Addresses Links to River Yala Bodies and Alleged Use of Killer Squad
However, Arati maintained that he has no political grudge against Gachagua, as long as the former DP supports Matiang’i’s 2027 presidential bid.
“Matiang’i will be at the table helping shape the next national government. Rigathi Gachagua, if you can take Matiang’i’s hand and say ‘Matiang’i is the one,’ then we have no problem with you,” Arati said.
Matiang’i has expressed interest in contesting the presidency in the 2027 general elections. Other opposition leaders who are also eyeing for the presidency include Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates
