Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Dr Fred Matiang'i has called upon the Kuria and Gusii regions to support his presidential bid during a three-day campaign blitz in his backyard, asserting that he will not join President William Ruto's administration, which he claims is rife with wrongdoing.
During his speeches in Nyaribari Chache, Kisii County, and in Kuria East and West, Dr Matiang'i emphasised that he will prioritise the wishes of his people in all his decisions. He expressed readiness to collaborate with other leaders but firmly rejected the current government, citing its harsh treatment of citizens.
"Zaheer, just as you said, we are ready to work with all leaders, but not with this government, which harasses, abducts, and hurts its people. My decisions are guided by my people. I will only go where they want me to go," Dr Matiang'i stated in response to Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda, who pleaded with him to join the government.
Mr Jhanda acknowledged the significant support he received from Dr Matiang'i during his tenure as ICT Cabinet Secretary, reflecting on how the former minister aided his development efforts.
"When you served as ICT Cabinet Secretary, I would come to your office asking for help, and you always assisted me. I respect you a lot as our big brother. That is why we agree that, as a community and elected leaders, we must discuss peace in our county and the Gusii nation," Mr Jhanda said.
Dr Matiang'i's remarks come at a time when concerns over food security in Kenya are rising. On Thursday as he addressed several rallies in Kuria East, he warned that the nation risks a severe food crisis unless the government takes prompt action. He urged President Ruto to convene a meeting with stakeholders to address the impending crisis, highlighting that El Niño warnings have also been issued.
"We are facing a historic food shortage in the country due to a crop failure in the North and Central Rift, the breadbaskets of our nation, with losses estimated at 70-75 percent. We may not produce even 200 million bags of maize this year, leaving us with a deficit of over 28 billion bags," Dr Matiang'i warned.
He called on the country's leadership to focus on the looming food crisis instead of resorting to bribery and superficial engagements. Dr Matiang'i criticised the government for neglecting pressing issues and concentrating on irrelevant matters that do not benefit Kenyans.
Jubilee Presidential hopeful Dr Fred Matiang'i in Borabu, Nyamira County on April 24, 2026.
Photo credit: Ruth Mbula | Nation Media Group
The Jubilee Party presidential candidate expressed concern over the government's pre-occupation with maintaining power rather than addressing citizens' needs, stating, "He is more interested in his political survival than in the lives of Kenyans."
In the political arena, Dr Matiang'i also addressed the perceived challenges within the opposition. He steered clear of criticising former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has faced accusations of arrogance and creating divisions among opposition leaders. Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi asserted that Gachagua's behaviour undermines efforts to unite against President Ruto.
"Stop your arrogance; stop your pride and respect yourself if you expect other leaders to respect you," Mr Kibagendi told Gachagua. He emphasised the need for smaller communities to unite against perceived oppression from larger tribes.
Dr Matiang'i expressed optimism that opposition leaders could agree on a single candidate to challenge President Ruto in the upcoming elections. He urged leaders to engage in respectful dialogue to foster unity, acknowledging that the path toward collaboration would take time and effort.
"We want to walk this journey with love and respect for all leaders. If something arises, we will talk. I ask for the opportunity to sit at the table with like-minded individuals," he stated.
Dr Matiang'i called on Kenyans to live harmoniously, irrespective of political affiliations, emphasising that unity and tolerance are essential for the country's progress.
His appeal for unity comes amidst political disagreements within the opposition, highlighting the challenges that need to be addressed as the 2027 elections approach.
As the opposition grapples with internal conflicts, Dr Matiang'i reminded of the importance of solidarity in the pursuit of shared goals.
He encouraged leaders to prioritise the well-being of the citizens above political ambitions and personal grievances, laying a foundation for a united front against the current administration.
Dr Matiang'i was accompanied at the rallies by Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, MPs Clive Gisairo (Kitutu Masaba), Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache South), Jubilee leaders Jeremiah Kioni, Moitalel Ole Kenta, and Vincent Kemosi, former South Mugirango MP Omingo Magara, former Kisii woman rep Janet Ong'era, and activist Morara Kebaso among others.
