Matiangi: Opposition must focus on Kenyans’ problems
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary and 2027 presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i has defended his approach to political mobilisation, saying he is focused on engaging Kenyans directly on the issues affecting them rather than relying solely on traditional political rallies.
Speaking during an interview on Kameme FM, Matiang’i said his political strategy is centred on listening to citizens, understanding their concerns and discussing practical solutions.
Matiang’i said political leaders should move beyond large rallies and focus on conversations that allow Kenyans to articulate the challenges they face.
The former CS also spoke on the state of the opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election, amid continued efforts by opposition leaders to establish a united political front against President William Ruto.
Matiang’i has been positioning himself as one of the key figures in the opposition camp after declaring his interest in the presidency.
His comments come at a time when opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua and other political figures, continue to negotiate on how to build a stronger coalition ahead of 2027.
Matiang’i has maintained that the opposition’s success will depend on its ability to unite around a common agenda and address issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.
He also sought to explain why he has not been concentrating on the kind of large-scale political rallies traditionally associated with presidential campaigns, arguing that political engagement can take different forms, including direct conversations with citizens and the use of digital platforms.
The former Interior CS is now seeking to strengthen his national profile as the 2027 political contest gradually takes shape.
His remarks on Kameme FM are likely to fuel further debate within the opposition on the best strategy for challenging the Kenya Kwanza administration in the next General Election.