“I Am the Difference Kenyans Are Yearning For” – Matiang’i

Presidential aspirant Dr. Fred Matiang’i revealed that he was considered as a potential successor to President Kenyatta in 2022 but declined the opportunity, with the Jubilee Party eventually throwing its support behind the late Raila Odinga.

Speaking on Monday, Matiang’i said he is now ready to vie for the presidency, citing public demand as the driving force behind his decision.

“I am now resolved to respond to public interest. I bring 10 years of government experience,” he said.

He asserted that Kenyans are united in their desire for a change of leadership.

“Kenyans are unanimous about the need for change, and I am the difference they are yearning for,” Matiang’i asserted.

The former Cabinet Secretary also called for patience as opposition leaders work to field a single candidate for 2027.

“United opposition is a process, a journey with challenges. By 2027 we will be united, cohesive, and grounded. It is Kenyans telling us to come together to defeat the lies and deceit of this over-promising government,” he said.

Matiang’i dismissed claims that the opposition is divided, stressing that building consensus takes time and effort.

“This is not instant coffee. It takes time… negotiations, persuasion, and bonding. We are many houses in one big house, and eventually we will converge,” he explained.

At the same time, he criticized the government for focusing on propaganda instead of tackling real issues like corruption.

“This government cannot fight corruption because it is busy recruiting friends among the corrupt,” he said, adding that corruption cases are often dropped for political convenience.

“We don’t need new laws, institutions, or task forces. We only need political will. Let existing institutions work, and corruption will be defeated,” he said.

Dr. Matiang’i concluded by accusing President Ruto of losing focus and sincerity in the fight against corruption, blaming political interference for weakening professional institutions.

“What we have now are alcoholics preaching sobriety and the corrupt telling us to stop being corrupt,” he said.

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