By Kamadi Amata

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on April 29 made a notable appearance at a high-stakes meeting in Nairobi alongside key opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, signaling the beginning of intensified preparations for the 2027 general elections.

This marked Matiang’i’s first public engagement with Gachagua’s camp, effectively ending speculation surrounding his political allegiance. The meeting is one of several high-profile gatherings aimed at forging a united national opposition movement to challenge President William Ruto’s re-election bid.

Among the leaders present were Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc Kenya’s Martha Karua, Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, former presidential aspirant Mukhisa Kituyi, and former Cabinet Secretaries Mithika Linturi and Justin Muturi.

Though Matiang’i has kept a low profile since his quiet return from the United States, this appearance hints at his increasing involvement in national politics. Insiders suggest he has preferred behind-the-scenes consultations with key regional and national leaders over public statements.

Gachagua, who has expressed interest in the presidency, has been vocal about the need for a unified opposition front. Speaking during an interview with Weru TV on April 27, he said, “We will be meeting on Tuesday, and from that meeting, you are going to see a united team ready to liberate this country.”

He dismissed concerns about potential disputes over the opposition’s 2027 flag bearer, stating that the coalition would adopt “scientific methods” to identify the most viable candidate to face President Ruto.

“I am vying for the presidency, as are Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, and Eugene Wamalwa. We are all seeking support, but in the end, we will talk and agree on one candidate. Even if it’s not me, I will support whoever we settle on,” Gachagua affirmed.

The April 29 meeting comes at a time when opposition leaders are crafting a broad-based strategy to unseat the Kenya Kwanza government. Gachagua is expected to unveil his political vehicle next month, targeting to consolidate his support base in the Mt. Kenya region.

Matiang’i, while yet to formally declare his presidential ambitions, is expected to feature prominently in the coming weeks. Elders from the Gusii community are set to hold a major ceremony at Gusii Stadium to formally endorse him—a move anticipated to draw national political attention and further signal his re-entry into active politics.