Political activist and Borabu parliamentary aspirant Morara Kebaso has thrown his weight behind former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as the opposition’s strongest presidential contender for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during an interview with media p`ersonality-cum-comedian Oga Obinna on the night of Monday, June 29, 2026, Kebaso warned that the former CS could opt to run independently if the coalition settles on a Kalonzo Musyoka-Edwin Sifuna ticket.

He described Matiang’i as the most suitable candidate among those linked to the United Opposition, citing what he termed a strong performance record and relatively little political baggage.

“When I look at all people who can potentially be presidential candidates, when I look at the United Opposition, na niangalie wale watu wanaweza kuwa presidential candidates, for me, Matiang’i is the best option. He comes with less baggage; he comes with an excellent track record of performance. If you weigh, you will find that Fred Matiang’i has an excellent performance record. You can actually trust him to work on something,” Kebaso said.

He argued that if the opposition eventually nominates Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka for president with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as his running mate, Matiang’i is unlikely to support the arrangement.

According to Kebaso, Matiang’i needs a deputy from either the Eastern region or the Western Kenya region in his 2027 presidential bid.

He further argued that Matiang’i even stands a better chance of winning the presidential polls should he run alone, as compared to the joint United Opposition ticket.

“He needs a deputy, maybe from Ukambani or Western. If the United Opposition brings a Kalonzo-Sifuna presidential ticket, then Matiang’i is going to run alone. If Matiang’i runs for president alone, he even stands a better chance. Very good chance, because he will be running on a clean record; he will not be carrying dead weight,” he added.

Opposition yet to settle on flag bearer

Kebaso’s remarks come as the United Opposition continues internal consultations on its presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The coalition, which brings together leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi and Fred Matiang’i, has repeatedly maintained that it will field a single presidential candidate against President William Ruto.

However, the alliance has yet to unveil its flag bearer, with coalition principals insisting that the decision will be reached through consensus after extensive consultations.

Matiang’i’s growing profile

Matiang’i has emerged as one of the leading figures within the opposition following his return to active politics. Supporters have pointed to his tenure in government, particularly at the Interior, Education and ICT ministries, where he earned a reputation for implementing reforms and enforcing government policy.

His supporters argue that his administrative experience and technocratic background make him a formidable presidential contender, while critics have questioned aspects of his record during his time in government.

Jubilee endorsement

Kebaso’s endorsement of Matiang’i comes just moments after he announced that he had joined the Jubilee Party, shelving his own INJECT Party as he prepares to contest the Borabu parliamentary seat in 2027.

The activist said he had chosen Jubilee because of its enduring popularity in Nyamira County and the wider Gusii region, where Matiang’i is regarded as one of the most influential political figures.

His latest remarks are likely to fuel debate within opposition circles over the coalition’s eventual presidential ticket, particularly as various leaders continue positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 race.

While Kebaso expressed confidence that Matiang’i would make the strongest challenger to President Ruto, the opposition leadership has yet to indicate who will carry its presidential flag or who could emerge as the preferred running mate in what is expected to be one of Kenya’s most competitive elections.