ALL EYES ON MATIANG'I AS HE LANDS IN KENYA AMID ELECTION TALK

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i returned to the country on Thursday night, amid growing speculation over his potential presidential bid in the 2027 General Elections.

Dr. Matiang’i arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) aboard Qatar Airways from Washington via Doha. Although he declined to address the press, he briefly expressed gratitude for a safe journey, stating he would speak to the nation at a later date.

He was received by several leaders, including Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba.

His arrival has reignited conversations around his possible candidacy, which first gained traction during the Gen Z-led protests in June 2024. Matiang’i, who served under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has remained tight-lipped about his political plans.

The Jubilee Party has already declared support for Matiang’i, with Kioni stating that he is the party’s preferred candidate heading into 2027. “We've settled on Matiang’i as our candidate—not necessarily the final presidential flagbearer, but a strong contender within the coalition,” Kioni said in February.

A section of Kisii leaders have also endorsed his candidacy, adding to the mounting pressure for Matiang’i to officially join the presidential race.

Reports have also emerged linking him to a Canadian lobby firm, Dickens & Madison, allegedly engaged to help strategize his 2027 campaign. Until recently, Matiang’i held a position at the World Bank in Washington, a role he is expected to relinquish if he formally enters politics.