Why Wamuchomba and Matiang’i’s close ties could extend to 2027
By Mabonga Makhanu, August 4, 2025Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba’s recent close ties with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i is not something to take lightly, especially now, when he is eyeing the top seat.
Although the two have only been seen together publicly on two occasions, those appearances speak volumes.
This is not just a casual meetup. The chemistry between them, coupled with the timing, strongly suggests that Matiang’i could be grooming Wamuchomba as a potential running mate should he declare his presidential bid.
Wamuchomba’s political shift
Wamuchomba, who was once a vocal and loyal ally of the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has undergone a noticeable political shift. During Gachagua’s impeachment process in 2024, she stood firmly by his side.
She went head-on with the proponents of the impeachment motion and was present at nearly every event Gachagua attended.
However, in recent months, that loyalty seems to have faded. While she has not publicly declared her fallout with Gachagua, her actions suggest that the relationship has cooled.
For the past three months, Wamuchomba has conspicuously avoided mentioning Gachagua’s name in any of her public forums, something that would have been unthinkable just months ago.
Matiang’i’s Karen meeting
The first public meetup between Wamuchomba and Matiang’i took place at the former CS’s Karen home on May 15, 2025. Interestingly, this happened on the same day Gachagua was launching his political party.
Given Wamuchomba’s long-standing loyalty to Gachagua, it was expected she would attend his launch. Instead, she was seen with’s with a potential presidential rival. This wasn’t just surprising; it was strategic.
The two leaders, although under the broader umbrella of the United Opposition, seemed to be aligning more than ideologically. It was a subtle but powerful message.
Thika church meetup
Later, during a church service in Thika town at AIPCA on Sunday, June 29, 2025, where Matiang’i led a delegation of Kisii elected leaders, Wamuchomba welcomed him warmly.
Notably, she was the only opposition-aligned leader present. Other key figures, such as Kiambu Senator Karung’o Wa Thang’wa, known for his criticism of the government and his close ties with Gachagua, were absent. After the service, Wamuchomba and Matiang’i shared breakfast at a local eatery and even addressed roadside rallies together.
It was during this church event that Wamuchomba made a politically loaded statement:
“Kwa sababu mimi naona mbali, naona mbali kwa sababu naona tuko na the next president hapa, Dr Fred Matiang’i.” Wamuchomba declared.
For any keen political observer, such a statement cannot be brushed aside. It’s more than just praise; it’s a signal. Should Matiang’i throw his hat into the presidential ring, Wamuchomba might be considered for a key position, possibly even as his running mate.
Saboti empowerment drive
The most recent development further adds weight to this theory. During an empowerment programme in Saboti on Sunday, August 3, 2025, organised by the area MP Caleb Amisi, Matiang’i sent Wamuchomba with a Ksh100,000 donation.
This was despite the presence of his close ally, Kitutu Chache MP Oliver Gesairo, who hails from Matiang’i’s Kisii backyard and has been publicly aligned with him. Gesairo was even present at JKIA to welcome Matiang’i back to the country. Yet, Matiang’i chose Wamuchomba, from miles away in Githunguri, to represent him at the Saboti event.
Why her?
It’s clear that the relationship between Wamuchomba and Matiang’i is more than just political courtesy. It’s a strategic alignment one that could signal an emerging political formation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Their bromance is something to watch closely. They might just be up to something much bigger than what meets the eye.
Conclusion
As the political landscape continues to shift ahead of the 2027 elections, alliances are being quietly forged and loyalties redrawn. Gathoni Wamuchomba’s growing closeness to Matiang’i is no coincidence; it’s a calculated move that could redefine her political trajectory.
While the meetings may appear casual on the surface, the timing, the symbolism, and the roles she’s playing in Matiang’i’s emerging political reawakening suggest that something is indeed brewing.
Whether as a running mate or a key figure in Matiang’i’s inner circle, Wamuchomba’s next political chapter might be tied to a much larger ambition. Only time will tell.