Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has firmly dismissed claims that he is the political puppet of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, declaring that he is not affiliated with any political party — at least, not yet.
Speaking candidly in an exclusive Citizen TV interview aired on July 1, 2025, Matiang’i said he is still engaging in consultations with various political leaders and parties across the spectrum, carefully evaluating his next move as he sets his eyes on the 2027 presidency.
“I don’t belong to any political party at the moment. I’m holding broad-based consultations with leaders from across the country,” Matiang’i said.
“If I commit to one party now, I risk excluding others I’m still in talks with.”
NOT UHURU’S PROJECT: MATIANG’I SETS RECORD STRAIGHT
Responding to widespread speculation that he is Uhuru Kenyatta’s handpicked successor, Matiang’i downplayed the claims as baseless and misinformed.
“Just because I served in Uhuru’s Cabinet for 10 years doesn’t make me his political project. If that’s the logic, then many current leaders who worked under him should also be labeled his projects,” he argued.
“I haven’t asked Uhuru to endorse me. We do talk about national issues, but my political ambition is a decision I’ll make with fellow Kenyans — not in anyone’s shadow.”
Matiang’i, who held three powerful Cabinet positions under Kenyatta’s administration, further pointed out that public service should not be mistaken for blind political allegiance.
“If serving in government makes me a project, then I might as well be called a World Bank project — because I recently worked with them too,” he added humorously.
2027 PRESIDENTIAL AMBITION TAKING SHAPE
While he stopped short of declaring a specific political vehicle, Matiang’i hinted that several parties — between 7 and 8 — have approached him to be their presidential flagbearer for 2027.
“It’s encouraging to see political parties expressing interest in me before I even ask. But I won’t rush. I want inclusive, thorough dialogue with Kenyans before settling on a coalition or party,” he said.
He emphasized the need for unity and coalition-building, acknowledging that no single party is likely to win the presidency alone in Kenya’s current political environment.
“We’re stronger when we build together. The next government will need a broad coalition that truly represents all corners of the country.”
JUBILEE PARTY’S ENDORSEMENT FUELS DEBATE
In early 2025, Jubilee Party threw its weight behind Matiang’i as their preferred presidential aspirant, sparking speculation of a reunion between him and his former boss, Uhuru Kenyatta.
Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni clarified that the endorsement positioned Matiang’i as a potential flagbearer within the party, but the final decision would involve broader coalition talks.
“We see Matiang’i as a strong candidate within our party, but the goal is to bring together a united front with other parties and choose one presidential candidate as a coalition,” Kioni said.
