Matiang’i Rules Out Possibility of Collaboration with Ruto

Matiang’i Rules Out Possibility of Collaboration with Ruto

Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i has firmly ruled out any possibility of working with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election, signalling a hardening stance within Kenya’s opposition as political alignments begin to take shape.

Speaking during a recent interview, Matiang’i dismissed speculation about a potential alliance with the Head of State, arguing that such a move would be inconsistent with his political goals and the broader agenda of the United Opposition, where he has emerged as a key figure in recent months.

“What would we be discussing? Work with him on what? Look at his history, the people he has wanted to work with,” Matiang’i posed, questioning the viability of any collaboration.

“He is already quarrelling with the ones he has been working with. Surely, am I from Mars? What difference is it going to make?” he added, in remarks that underscore his scepticism toward the ruling coalition.

The former Interior Cabinet Secretary’s comments come at a time when the opposition is seeking to consolidate its position ahead of the next electoral cycle, even as internal competition for leadership intensifies.

Matiang’i also took issue with the government’s handling of the fuel sector, accusing the Kenya Kwanza administration of enabling inefficiencies and failing to protect Kenyans from rising costs.

“If I were head of state, I would not engage and allow cartels to operate in the whole sector, clearly driven by individual interest for some vested elite,” he said. “I don’t understand why we got into these agreements with private companies.”

His remarks reflect broader public concern over fuel price fluctuations, which have had a ripple effect on the cost of living, transport, and basic commodities across the country.

Beyond his criticism of the current administration, Matiang’i used the platform to reaffirm his presidential ambitions, making it clear that he intends to vie for the country’s top seat in 2027 despite the absence of a unified opposition candidate.

“I have not thought about not being President,” he stated. “I would not invest in something if I am not like 70–80 per cent sure about it.”

“I do a lot of scientific work, and I am confident; I am serious about everything I do. I can’t see President Ruto’s pathway to election victory,” he added.

His declaration places him among a growing list of opposition leaders who have publicly expressed interest in the presidency. These include Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, all of whom are seen as potential contenders within the same political faction.

Political observers note that while the opposition appears united in its criticism of the government, the presence of multiple presidential hopefuls could complicate efforts to present a single candidate capable of mounting a strong challenge against the incumbent.

Addressing speculation about his political backing, Matiang’i dismissed claims that he is a proxy of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, under whose administration he served in several senior roles.

He maintained that his political trajectory is independent, driven by his own vision and policy priorities rather than allegiance to any individual.

The relationship between Matiang’i and President Ruto has remained strained in recent months, with both leaders exchanging sharp criticism in public forums. Analysts suggest that the increasingly direct rhetoric could signal the early stages of a highly competitive and potentially polarising election cycle.

As Kenya edges closer to 2027, the positions taken by key political figures such as Matiang’i are likely to shape coalition-building efforts, voter perceptions, and the broader direction of national politics.

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Matiang’i Rules Out Possibility of Collaboration with Ruto