Dr Fred Matiang'i remains a sought-after figure, with both the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and the Jubilee Party trading public jabs over which party’s flag the former Cabinet Secretary will fly in 2027.

While addressing the press on Thursday, February 27, a UPA official asserted that Matiang’i would vie under UPA and not the Jubilee Party.

“The candidature of Fred Matiang’i is through UPA,” the official stated, weeks after the Jubilee Party publicly endorsed Matiang’i as their presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

Last month, Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni announced this decision, expressing confidence in Matiang'i's ability to unseat President William Ruto. 

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta (right) with former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i at Coast in January 2019.

PSCU

Kioni stated, "We as the Jubilee Party have our own candidate, Fred Matiang'i. He will face off with the others to ensure Ruto goes home."

Kioni emphasised that the party's membership has surpassed seven million, positioning it strongly for the upcoming electoral contest.

Matiang’i was appointed as the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and Technology by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2013, before being moved to the Ministry of Education in November 2015, where he implemented significant reforms to curb examination malpractices.

Following the death of Joseph Ole Nkaissery in July 2017, he was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government, a position he held until October 2022.

However, Matiang’i is a member of UPA, and there have been no reports of his exit from the party. In December 2024, UPA's National Executive Council officially endorsed him as their presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

To prepare for his presidential bid, Matiang'i has reportedly engaged the services of a Canadian lobbying firm.

This collaboration aims to garner international support and enhance his campaign strategy. Reports reveal that Matiang'i has made an initial payment of $65,000 (approximately Ksh8.4 million) towards this consultancy.

Matiang’i is among the candidates who have expressed interest in replacing President William Ruto. The others include Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who is exploring the idea, and activist Morara Kebaso.

A photo of Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni.

Photo

Jubilee Party