A number of grassroots declarations have poised former interior CS Fred Matiangi as a preferred candidate in the fast approaching August Polls. On the contrary, deep state agents and critics are passionatrly campaigning against his candidature. Discussed are some of the reasons why Fred Matiangi presidential bid is a nightmare in Kenyan politics.
While there is no guarantee that Fred Matiang’i won’t become president in 2027, there are evident obstacles on his path to State House.
5 Reasons why Fred Matiangi presidential bid is a nightmare in Kenyan politics
The possibility of Matiangi becoming president remains in the balance against some of the hurdles yet to be overcome.
What are the key challenges facing Matiangi’s presidential bid?
1. Historical controversies on the rule of law
Fred Matiangi is on record for confronting opposition leader Raila Odinga and his allies during a ‘mock swearing in’ ceremony which resulted in the deportation of Miguna Muguna.
The eventual shutdown of leading television stations such as Citizen TV only worsened the situation.
Even so, critics and supporters are yet to agree on whether Matiangi is a believer on the rule of law or not.
2. President Ruto‑Odinga coalition
The political alliance between President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga is among the core challenges facing Matiangi’s presidential bid.
The consolidation of votes within the broad based government will certainly give Matiangi a hard time trying to amass influence within stem regions.
3. Lack of experience in electoral politics
The fact that Matiang’i has never held an elective office places him at a disadvantage against his opponents.
Truth be told, his technocratic and strong governance appeal may not be as effective as the charisma of seasoned political operators.
4. Lack of influence machineries and systems
The once dominant Jubilee Party is now fragmented without the much needed starter-pack organizational strength.
It is also worrisome that not a single regional kingpin has endorsed Matiangi’s with less than two years remaining until the 2027 polls.
5. Tribal and regional limitations
Kenya’s presidential politics still hinges on coalition building across major blocs such as Mt. Kenya and Rift Valley.
Unfortunately, Matiangi’s support is concentrated within the less dominant Kisii community.
One can can only wait to see if the tribe-less Genz movement will make him a national figure as the ballot draws nearer.
Potential legal or political distractions
The public image of Fred Matiangi has previously suffered from politically motivated summons and allegations of extra-judicial killings.
In his defense, Matiangi insists that he helped former President Uhuru Kenyatta to lead the nation within the rule of law.
Above all, a significant number of Kenyans believe that Fred Matiangi is a progressive leader running against all odds to save the country from economic and political turmoil.
I am a digital creative cum graduate Mechatronics Engineer from Dedan Kimathi University; with over a decade of experience in computer applications, networking, website design, graphic design, blogging, CAD, and robotics. Besides, I coach on-demand digital skills at Rejnac Spark Masterclass. Reach out via mail at [email protected].
