Matiang’i Intensifies Political Outreach in Mount Kenya

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has intensified his political outreach in Kiambu County, visiting the area twice in three days as part of efforts to strengthen the Jubilee Party’s presence in the Mount Kenya region.

During his latest visit on Sunday, Matiang’i attended services at St Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Karuri and Life Church International in Limuru, where he urged congregants to embrace unity, reconciliation and shared purpose. 

“We want to invite those who left Jubilee, new aspirants and fresh members to join us as we rebuild ahead of the 2027 elections,” he said.

Addressing residents at Karuri market, he reiterated the need for faith to shape political progress. Over the past month, he has visited the region six times, meeting youth and women’s groups to expand his support base. 

Sunday’s tour followed a meeting in Murang’a where former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who remains Jubilee’s party leader, publicly endorsed Matiang’i as a capable and inclusive leader. 

“I’m supporting Matiang’i because of his ability, not his tribe,” Uhuru said, signalling his intention to unite the party behind his former minister.

Despite the renewed energy, Jubilee faces significant hurdles. The Mount Kenya region largely backed President William Ruto in the 2022 elections, and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) continues to enjoy strong loyalty. 

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democratic Congress Party (DCP) has also gained ground, posing further competition. Aware of these challenges, Uhuru has urged party members to campaign peacefully and avoid confrontations. 

“We won’t allow any Jubilee member to insult other leaders, including Gachagua or anyone else. We need peace in this country,” he said last week.

Matiang’i’s approach appears focused on building on Kenyatta’s influence while presenting himself as a unifying national figure. His allies say his attention to Mount Kenya reflects its electoral importance. Borabu MP Patrick Osero explained, “Fred doesn’t need to campaign at home. We’ve released him to seek support elsewhere, and Mount Kenya is one of our main focus areas.”

Meanwhile, in Nyamira, Osero and fellow MPs Anthony Kibagendi and Clive Gisairo are leading campaigns for candidates aligned with Matiang’i in upcoming ward by-elections. They remain confident of winning in Nyansiongo, Ekerenyo and Nyamaiya, despite UDA’s growing presence.