Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i will begin a political journey today with apparent presidential ambitions for 2027, after meeting opposition leaders earlier this week.

These so-called consultative meetings represent his first public appearance this year, seeking the Gusii community’s support for his political aspirations. According to the Team Matiang’i Secretariat, he will tour the Gusii region today.

Matiang’i will be accompanied by governors Simba Arati (Kisii) and Amos Nyaribo (Nyamira) senators Richard Onyonka (Kisii) and Okong’o Mogeni (Nyamira), along with MPs and MCAs from the region. The tour includes meet-the-people events and courtesy visits to county governors.

Key stops include Kijauri, Keroka, Keumbu, Kisii town, Chepilat, Kemera, Kebirigo, Ekerenyo, and Nyamira.

The tour begins at 9am in Chepilat on the Nyamira-Bomet border.

Matiang’i will be joined by elected leaders from both within and outside the Gusii community who support his presidential bid, said Nakuru West MP Samuel Arama.

“Matiang’i could use this occasion to clarify whether he’s serious about his presidential ambitions,” Arama said.

Raila support sought

Supporters have already printed T-shirts and caps bearing Matiang’i’s name. United Progressive Alliance party chairman Gisesa Nyambega confirmed preparations were underway to welcome him.

Former minister Prof Sam Ongeri has called on ODM leader Raila Odinga to support Matiang’i.

“We have been supporting Raila for the top seat, but this time we want him to reciprocate by also supporting Matiang’i so as to save our country from the economic and political mess President William Ruto has [created],” Ongeri said.

On Tuesday, Matiang’i met with key opposition figures as part of early coalition-building efforts.