Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i returned to Kenya on Thursday night, April 17, 2025, after two and a half year of self-imposed exile in the United States.
Landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 11:40 p.m. aboard a Qatar Airways flight from Washington, D.C., via Doha, Matiang’i’s homecoming has reignited speculation about his role in the 2027 General Elections.
Although Matiang’i has not publicly declared his intentions, his return—just two years before the next presidential vote—is widely seen as a strategic move with potentially far-reaching political implications.
Here are five ways Matiang’i’s return could reshape Kenya’s 2027 political landscape:
1. Rekindling Presidential Ambitions
Matiang’i’s return comes amid persistent rumours of a presidential bid.
Backed by elements within the Jubilee Party and sections of the political class in Kisii and beyond, his homecoming may be the clearest sign yet that he intends to mount a serious campaign for State House.
In February, Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni endorsed Matiang’i as the party’s preferred candidate.
While Kioni acknowledged that the final flagbearer could emerge from a coalition, he emphasized Matiang’i’s pivotal role in that process.
“We’ve settled on Matiang’i as our candidate… who would then join others in coming up with one person who, as a coalition, we will back,” Kioni said.
2. Expanding the Opposition Front
Matiang’i’s name has emerged in talks surrounding a potential opposition coalition for 2027.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, in remarks earlier this week, revealed discussions were ongoing with several leaders, including Matiang’i, to form an alternative political alliance.
“I’m doing that with Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, George Natembeya, and Fred Matiang’i,” Gachagua said, hinting at a coordinated push to challenge the current administration.
Should this front coalesce, Matiang’i could play a central role in crafting a unified political agenda that appeals to both opposition loyalists and disillusioned voters.
3. Renewed Focus on Governance and Integrity
Matiang’i’s return also resurrects unresolved tensions with the Kenya Kwanza government.
In February 2023, his Karen home was raided by police, an incident that led to hours of questioning by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) but no formal charges.
The episode raised concerns over politically motivated investigations, and Matiang’i’s subsequent departure was viewed by some as a form of forced exile.
His re-entry into public life could reignite these debates, positioning him as a symbol of resistance to state overreach.
It may also place him at odds with ongoing legal and political efforts to curtail his influence.
4. Kisii Region Recalibrates Its Power Play
Matiang’i enjoys considerable support in Kisii County, where leaders including Senator Richard Onyonka have publicly welcomed his return and pushed for his candidacy.
His presence may reenergize the Gusii voting bloc, which has in past elections been divided or marginalized on the national stage.
If he manages to consolidate the Kisii vote while building broader national appeal, Matiang’i could shift the electoral map in meaningful ways—particularly in an election where regional alignments will be critical.
5. International Influence and Campaign Infrastructure
Reports have emerged that Matiang’i engaged a Canadian lobbying firm, Dickens & Madison, in 2024 to help shape his political strategy.
According to the agreement, the firm would offer public relations and lobbying services, including outreach to U.S. political institutions.
A retainer of $250,000 and an initial payment of $65,000 signal the seriousness of his political ambitions.
The arrangement underscores an internationally coordinated campaign, likely to leverage global goodwill, diaspora support, and professional expertise to boost his 2027 chances.
Looking Ahead
Though he remains guarded about his next political steps, Fred Matiang’i’s return is more than symbolic.
It marks the opening move in what could be a high-stakes power struggle leading into the 2027 elections.
With plans underway for a grand homecoming rally in May, Matiang’i appears poised to re-enter the political fray.
But whether his momentum will translate into electoral traction – or face resistance from within government circles – remains to be seen.
One thing is clear: with Fred Matiang’i back in the country, the road to 2027 just got more unpredictable.
