Jubilee Party Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i has strongly dismissed claims that the 2027 General Election could be manipulated in favour of any political formation, saying Kenyans are determined to defend their democratic right to choose leaders of their choice.

Speaking during a Jubilee Party aspirants meeting held at the party headquarters in Nairobi on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, Matiang’i accused some leaders of spreading fear and “desperation politics” through claims that the election outcome could be predetermined.

Matiang’i said political leaders should not underestimate the intelligence of voters, noting that Kenyans are fully aware of the political dynamics shaping the country ahead of the next general election.

He argued that seasoned politicians can already sense shifting public sentiment and are aware of growing dissatisfaction among citizens.

“I do not believe. Unajua kuna kasumba hapa na hiyo ni kasumba ya desperation. Watu sio wajinga. Tusifikirie ati wale wako kwa uongozi ni watu wajinga, sio wajinga. They know. Some of them are experienced politicians. They can see the mood in the country. Wanatudanganya hapa na sarakasi. Hata hao wenyewe wanaona kumedhoka. Wanajisukuma hapo wanasema ati hawaezi shindwa,” Matiang’i said.

Claims of rigging dismissed

The former CS took issue with remarks by a section of leaders allied to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) who have suggested that President William Ruto will secure a second term regardless of political competition.

Matiang’i said such statements reflect insecurity rather than confidence, insisting that elections cannot be predetermined in a democratic system.

He cited examples of electoral turnovers in other African countries, arguing that incumbency does not guarantee victory.

Matiang’i emphasised that ultimate political power lies with voters, warning against any attempts to undermine electoral integrity.

He dismissed suggestions that any group could manipulate the 2027 outcome, saying such claims underestimate the resolve of citizens.

“Wanajisukuma hapo wanasema ati hawaezi shindwa. Ati hakuna rais anaweza kutolewa kwa term moja. Africa, Chakwera amefukuzwa, ule wa Botswana alipotea, ule wa Ghana alitupwa nje, na huyu pia atahama. Itakuwa namna hiyo. Wanajiambia hawawezi shindwa. Why? Unless we are not a democracy,” he said.

“Tuko hapa karibu na hii nyumba (State House), na tunataka kuingia. Tunaeza hata enda na mguu mbio sana. Wameanza hiyo maneno ya kusema ati kura isipotosha watajaza. Utajaza wapi? Hakuna.“

Confidence in opposition push

The former CS expressed confidence that political change remains possible, suggesting that the electorate will determine the country’s next leadership.

He said opposition-aligned forces are preparing to contest the elections robustly, with a focus on voter mobilisation and democratic participation.

Matiang’i’s remarks come amid intensifying political activity and early campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders trading accusations over governance, electoral preparedness, and alleged manipulation.

Kindiki dismisses rigging claims

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has, however, dismissed allegations that the government is planning to rig next year’s General Election, insisting the Kenya Kwanza administration will seek re-election on the strength of its development agenda and delivery record.

Speaking on Monday, May 25, 2026, during a public engagement in Kisii, Kindiki said the government has no reason to manipulate the electoral process because its performance since taking office has already earned the confidence of wananchi across the country.

“We do not need any illegal assistance to win next year’s General Election,” the Deputy President said, in remarks apparently aimed at opposition leaders who have repeatedly questioned the credibility of the 2027 polls.

Kindiki argued that the administration’s investments in roads, electricity connectivity, affordable housing, agriculture, healthcare and education reforms would ultimately vindicate the government when Kenyans head to the ballot.