Matiang’i vows to back Kalonzo if picked as opposition flagbearer
By Kiprono Keileb, October 10, 2025Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has declared that he will support Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka if the opposition coalition selects him as its joint presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during the Wiper Democratic Movement–Kenya’s National Delegates Congress (NDC) held in Nairobi on Friday, October 10, 2025, Matiang’i urged opposition leaders to put aside personal ambitions and work together for the country’s greater good.
He emphasised that unity within the opposition would be key to offering Kenyans a strong alternative and rescuing the nation from poor governance.
The former CS had earlier said that the country needs a trustworthy leader.
“We have agreed, we must put ambitions and everything else before the interests of this country,” Matiang’i said, drawing applause from delegates who had gathered for the congress.
He noted that the opposition must find a transparent and fair method of identifying a candidate who can unite Kenyans and deliver change. According to him, the process should involve wide consultations among all political leaders and stakeholders.
“When we sit together and the united opposition declares that Kalonzo will be the candidate, I will support you. We will support you,” he stated.
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Remaining united
Matiang’i, who has maintained a low political profile since leaving office, spoke passionately about the need for teamwork within the opposition family, describing it as the only way to secure a leadership that truly reflects the will of the people.
“I believe that when that time comes, when we all sit together, consult everybody, and a method is found of identifying a candidate or one of us who will deliver, be first among equals, we should all rally behind that individual,” he said.
The former CS made it clear that his support for Kalonzo would be unconditional if the united opposition chooses him, signalling a possible political comeback and alignment with key opposition figures.
“As I have said here openly, Your Excellency, if that person is yourself, we will support you and back you because in any case, that’s what we want,” he affirmed.
Matiang’i’s remarks come at a time when calls for opposition unity have intensified, with leaders pushing for a single, strong front to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.