Presidential aspirant Dr Fred Matiang’i is leveraging Jubilee and PNU party networks in Mt Kenya to strengthen his appeal in the vote-rich region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Dr Matiang’i kicked off his campaign in the region with a public rally in Timau, Meru County, on Sunday, where he was hosted by PNU party leader Peter Munya.
The rally attracted a cross-section of political leaders and grassroots supporters, highlighting the candidate’s focus on engaging directly with the electorate.
As part of his campaign strategy, Dr Matiang’i plans to meet with local leaders across Mt Kenya in a bid to set the pace for his future public engagements. His outreach strategy underscores his reliance on established party networks to consolidate support in a region known for its decisive role in national politics.
The former Interior Minister has also received endorsements from several political parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Kenya Social Congress and United Progressive Alliance (UPA), among others. He has cultivated a reputation for being a results-oriented leader, often referred to as “Mr Fix-It” during his tenure in government for shuttling across ministries targeted for reform.
Speaking during the Timau rally, Dr Matiang’i stressed the strategic importance of Mt Kenya in his presidential bid.
People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua (centre) addresses journalists flanked by (from left) Dr Fred Matiangi, former Attorney-General Justin Muturi, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other opposition leaders at SKM Command Center in Nairobi on July 8, 2025.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
“I had planned a tour of the mountain in early July, but we canceled it due to the unfortunate incidents of July 7. There was also a plot to infiltrate our meetings with goons. However, we will not be intimidated. I will camp here in the mountain and talk to the people directly,” he said.
Dr Matiang’i noted that opposition leaders—including Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa—are ready to collaborate ahead of the elections.
“We will come to an agreement on one presidential flag bearer for the opposition. What is clear is that the next general election will be a people’s election, where Kenyans decide without undue influence. The people are looking for the right leadership, not the tribe of the leader,” he said.
The presidential hopeful also highlighted his ongoing consultations with various political parties to identify the most suitable platform for uniting all Kenyans behind his agenda.
“We are at the consultation stage and I am listening to all stakeholders to make an inclusive decision. I am talking to different parties, but the most important thing is uniting Kenyans around our cause,” Dr Matiang’i said.
During the rally, he joined other opposition leaders in criticizing the government’s plans to privatise the Kenya Pipeline Company, describing the move as reckless and part of a larger scheme to misappropriate public funds. Citing auditor-general's reports, he said multiple government agencies have been implicated in massive financial mismanagement.
“This administration has messed up the country in all sectors. The plan to privatise KPC is part of a plot to loot the country through proxy companies. Public funds are being misused to hire choppers and funnel money to a few individuals under the guise of empowerment,” he said, highlighting challenges facing both the Social Health Authority and the education sector as evidence of a country losing direction.
Dr Matiang’i urged Kenyans to give him a chance to lead a capable team that can restore order and accountability in governance.
PNU leader Peter Munya said the party is backing Dr Matiang’i because of his track record in government reforms and his dedication to public service.
Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya.
Photo credit: David Muchui | Nation Media Group
“PNU and Jubilee parties have resolved to back Dr Fred Matiang’i for the presidency because we must fix this country. All Kenyans are fed up with the current administration,” Mr Munya said. He added that the privatisation agenda is a ploy by those in power to take over lucrative government parastatals.
Dr Matiang’i was accompanied by former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, PDP leader Omingo Magara and other political figures, signaling a broad coalition of support.
The rally in Timau marks the beginning of what Dr Matiang’i describes as a “hands-on, people-centered campaign,” aimed at connecting with voters across Mt Kenya and beyond.
