Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has addressed claims circulating online that he held a secret political meeting with Junet Mohamed and Simba Arati, insisting the three only crossed paths by chance at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
In a statement issued on Saturday, July 4, Matiang’i said the encounter occurred after each of them had checked in for separate travel arrangements.
“This morning, after checking in at the Kenya Airways desk at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, I bumped into Kisii Governor Hon. Simba Arati and Suna East MP Hon. Junet Mohamed, who had also checked in and were traveling to Kisumu. It was a chance encounter as each of us proceeded to board our flight,” he said.
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Matiang’i was responding to reports and social media claims suggesting that the airport meeting was part of secret political engagements and that he was in talks to join the government.
“Contrary to false claims circulating online, this was neither a meeting held last night nor a planned engagement. It was simply a chance encounter between leaders at the airport,” he stated.
According to Matiang’i, after leaving the airport, he traveled to Kisumu before proceeding to Apondo SDA Church in Ahero, where he joined Siaya Governor James Orengo, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, and other worshippers for a church service.
Former President Backs Matiang’i, Rallies Opposition Unity Ahead of 2027
Uhuru Kenyatta had earlier openly backed former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, endorsing him as a preferred leader of the Jubilee Party ahead of the 2027 General Election and urging opposition forces to unite.
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Speaking during a political gathering in Narok County via a phone call facilitated by his brother, Muhoho Kenyatta, on May 1, the former president described Matiang’i as hardworking, resilient, and capable despite his relative inexperience in frontline politics.
“I see Matiang’i as a strong and resilient leader. He may be new to politics, but he is a highly effective worker,” Uhuru said.
He also congratulated Patrick Ole Kenta on his election as Jubilee Party Secretary General, describing him as principled, courageous, and unafraid to stand for justice.
The former Head of State said Ole Kenta would defend the interests of the people rather than personal gain, adding that his leadership would help elevate the party’s standing.
The event brought together several opposition leaders, including Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Peter Munya, all of whom reiterated their commitment to unity as they prepare to challenge the current administration in the 2027 General Election.
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