Matiang’i: No money or threat will make me drop my presidential bid
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has officially kicked off his presidential campaign in the Mt. Kenya region with a firm declaration that no amount of money, threats, or pressure will make him quit his 2027 race for State House.
Speaking at Sportsman’s Arms, Laikipia, on Sunday, August 17, 2025, Matiang’i told grassroots leaders that his mission is to rescue Kenya from corruption and failed leadership.
“I cannot be bought, bullied, or forced out of this race. This is my personal decision, not anyone’s project. I am here to fix this nation,” Matiang’i said.
Matiang’i Denies Being Uhuru’s Political Project
The former CS dismissed claims linking him to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, insisting he is running independently.
“Wasn’t Ruto also Uhuru’s deputy? Does that make him a project? These are distractions. I am not Uhuru’s project—I stand on my own,” Matiang’i told the crowd.
He also accused President William Ruto’s administration of hypocrisy in the fight against corruption.
“You cannot fight corruption while your own family is doing business with government agencies. Leadership must be by example. Kenya cannot move forward like this,” he added.
Matiang’i’s Priorities if Elected President
If elected in 2027, Matiang’i promised tough anti-corruption reforms, including:
- Banning public officials from government tenders and contracts.
- Cleaning up procurement systems within six months of taking office.
- Ensuring public service is about serving Kenyans, not looting resources.
“No public official will be allowed to do business with the government under my watch,” Matiang’i vowed.
Mt. Kenya Leaders Endorse Matiang’i
Matiang’i’s Mt. Kenya tour received a major boost after top leaders endorsed his candidacy.
- Party of National Unity (PNU) leader Peter Munya described him as the only leader who can save Kenya from economic collapse.
- Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni assured supporters that Mt. Kenya was fully behind Matiang’i.
“Even if another candidate comes from Mt. Kenya, Matiang’i will beat them here. The mountain is locked for him,” Kioni declared.
Kioni further confirmed that Jubilee Party will back Matiang’i as their 2027 presidential flag bearer.
Building a National Coalition
Matiang’i also revealed he is building a broad coalition with leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Peter Munya, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“This is not about tribe or ethnicity. It’s about competence, honesty, and integrity,” he noted.
He hinted at announcing his political party soon, saying he is still “listening to the people” before making the reveal.
Pledges Mature, Issue-Based Campaign
The presidential hopeful promised to avoid insults and divisive politics, focusing instead on solutions for ordinary Kenyans.
“Kenyans are tired of leaders who only shout. They want leadership that delivers,” Matiang’i told supporters in Meru.
He committed to creating a government that guarantees:
- Corruption-free leadership
- Affordable cost of living
- Job opportunities for the youth
- Universal free education
- Food security for all families
“No child will go hungry, and no family will be left behind. My mission is to create opportunities for every Kenyan, not just a few elites,” Matiang’i concluded.
Matiang’i: No money or threat will make me drop my presidential bid
