Former Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i has stated he is ready to support another opposition presidential candidate for the 2027 election if selected through a scientific and acceptable process. This follows Jubilee party's official endorsement of him as their aspirant. He emphasizes the need for a unified opposition candidate to defeat President William Ruto.
Former Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i has revealed his willingness to support another presidential candidate selected by the Azimio la Umoja opposition coalition to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 election. Speaking on Wednesday morning during the ‘Fixing The Nation’ segment on NTV, Matiang’i stated: “Ndio kuna mwafaka miongoni mwetu kama vinara wa upinzani kwamba tunapaswa kuwa na mgombeaji mmoja wa urais ili tufaulu katika ajenda yetu ya kuiondoa serikali ya sasa mamlakani.”
He added: “Ikiwa mgombeaji huyo hatakuwa Fred Matiang’i nitamuunga mkono kwa heshima ya uamuzi wa Umoja wa Upinzani wenye mpango mmoja,” in response to a question from host Bishar Miriam. Matiang’i, Jubilee party's presidential aspirant, defended his qualifications based on his 10 years of service as minister under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.
On October 30 this year, Jubilee's National Executive Committee (NEC) officially endorsed Matiang’i as their presidential candidate. Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, speaking at the Nairobi meeting, said: “Tumepokea na kukubali rasmi ombi kutoka kwa Dkt Fred Matiang’i kuhusu ndoto yake ya urais,” noting the application was approved unanimously. Kioni also announced Matiang’i’s appointment as Deputy Leader of Jubilee and representative in Azimio la Umoja meetings, since party leader Uhuru Kenyatta will not run for president.
Matiang’i dismissed claims of divisions within the opposition, particularly after a DCP leader referred to Jubilee as a “red wheelbarrow.” This highlights efforts to unify for victory against the current government.