Atwoli Shuts Down Matiang’i’s Presidential Bid: “He Collects Tax More Than Ruto”

Francis Atwoli Shuts Down Matiang’i’s Presidential Bid: “He Collects Tax More Than Ruto”

Nairobi – Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has ruled out Fred Matiang’i’s chances of becoming Kenya’s president in 2027. Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday, January 28, Atwoli argued that Kenyan elections are shaped by ethnic alliances, an advantage that President William Ruto has over Matiang’i.

Why Fred Matiang’i Can’t Be President – Atwoli

Atwoli believes Matiang’i lacks a solid ethnic backing, which significantly reduces his chances.

“If Kenyan politics was being decided on issues, today I would be the president of the Republic of Kenya. Kenya’s politics is twinned and pegged on ethnicity. Once you organise tribes, you are okay,” he said.

The outspoken trade unionist also dismissed Matiang’i’s grassroots political influence. He pointed to the 2022 General Election, where the former Interior CS did not actively campaign for Raila Odinga despite being in government.

Atwoli further claimed that Matiang’i would impose even heavier taxes on Kenyans than Ruto has done in his two years in office. He also alleged that Matiang’i’s leadership could lead to more corruption.

“Can you tell me Matiang’i can be a president of the Republic of Kenya? I have worked with him. He is a tax collector more than Ruto, I know him. When we were in Azimio and we were leaving, Matiang’i did not even campaign for Raila. He did not stand up. He did not appear anywhere supporting Raila. They were busy in the Office of the President making money. I know them, I was there,” he declared.

Fred Matiang’i’s Growing Political Ambitions– Atwoli’s criticism

Despite Atwoli’s criticism, Matiang’i’s presidential ambitions are becoming more evident. Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka recently revealed that the Gusii community had resolved to back Matiang’i as their presidential candidate in 2027.

Speaking in Kisii County on January 24, Onyonka argued that the Gusii region has been politically marginalized for years. He insisted that it was their time to have a representative at the highest level.

While Onyonka believes Matiang’i stands a chance, he acknowledged that alliances would be necessary. He said they plan to seek partnerships with powerful leaders like former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Reports indicate that Matiang’i is already assembling a campaign secretariat. Speculation is rife that he will launch his political party. Meanwhile, Jubilee Party, linked to Uhuru, has pledged to support him. However, Matiang’i has remained silent on these claims.

Fred Matiang’i’s Public Service Legacy

Matiang’i, a Kisii native, is known for his firm leadership and no-nonsense approach. His government career began in 2013 when former President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed him Cabinet Secretary for ICT. He later served in the Lands Ministry before taking over the Education docket.

His tenure at the Education Ministry was marked by a crackdown on exam cheating, earning him national recognition. He later rose to become Interior CS, where he often faced criticism for overseeing tough police crackdowns on protesters.

Matiang’i exited the government alongside Uhuru after the 2022 elections. Before his time in public service, he taught at the University of Nairobi and Egerton University.

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Francis Atwoli Shuts Down Matiang’i’s Presidential Bid: “He Collects Tax More Than Ruto”