Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has given his strongest indication yet of a presidential bid in 2027, declaring that he is ready to lead Kenya and end the culture of corruption and mismanagement.

Speaking on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, during an interview with a local TV station, Matiang’i said he was grateful to God for the opportunity to serve the country in various capacities but now felt compelled to step forward and offer himself for higher leadership.

“I am grateful to God that I have had the opportunity to serve my country in various responsibilities before. I thank God that I have this opportunity to converse with the people of Kenya. I would like to lead my country and make a contribution in managing this country better,” he said.

Matiang’i strongly condemned the rampant looting of public resources, insisting that such a path is not Kenya’s destiny.

“Looting our country the way we are looting it is not our destiny. God has blessed us abundantly with resources to look after ourselves, our children and our children’s children,” he said.

New style of leadership

Matiang’i further promised a new style of leadership built on responsibility and accountability, pledging to run the country differently and to work with others of goodwill to improve the lives of Kenyans.

“I am ready, willing, and available to manage our country better and run our country differently from the way it is being run now. If you trust me enough and you give me the responsibility, I will ask you, please hold me to account. The buck stops here, and I will take responsibility, and I promise you, I will not let you down,” he declared.

United Opposition’s unity

Matiang’i, who is hoping to unseat President William Ruto during the 2027 general elections, has been working with the United Opposition as he popularises his bid.

The United Opposition, which consists of Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, PLP’s Martha Karua, DAP-K’s Eugine Wamalwa, and DP’s Justin Muturi, has since vowed to field one candidate against Ruto.