Close allies of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i are planning a massive homecoming event for him after months of speculation about his political ambitions.
The homecoming, tentatively scheduled for May, will mark Matiang’i’s return to Kenya.
The event is expected to launch his 2027 presidential bid and set the stage for gruelling campaigns for the country’s top job.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, a key figure in Matiang’i’s political camp, confirmed that preparations for the event are well underway.
“Fred Matiang’i will soon be with us—it’s only a matter of days. His many supporters across the country are excited and are planning a grand reception for him upon his return,” Onyonka said.
Onyonka, who has been representing Matiang’i at social events and political strategy meetings, plays a central role in the former CS’s campaign machinery.
While he did not disclose logistical details of the reception, sources indicate that planning is being coordinated by a central committee in Nairobi.
Matiang’i’s anticipated return to Nairobi signals the shaping of a high-stakes presidential contest in 2027, potentially setting him up against President William Ruto.
The development could also impact former Chief Justice David Maraga’s rumoured presidential aspirations as pressure mounts for him to step aside in favour of Matiang’i.
The former CS’s allies have set up various committees to oversee preparations for his arrival and reception, which they claim will rival the historic homecoming of Kenneth Matiba in the early 1990s.
A panel of prominent politicians, academicians, and professionals is expected to begin mobilisation efforts within the next week, marking a pivotal moment that could reshape the 2027 presidential race.
“It is going to be a massive reception across the country when that moment arrives,” said former South Mugirango MP Omingo Magara.
Magara added that national leaders are engaged in extensive consultations regarding both the homecoming event and the official launch of Matiang’i’s presidential campaign.
“At the moment, we are building momentum through consultations to identify a political vehicle for his bid. Several parties have already expressed interest in supporting him,” he said.
In addition to the national coordinating committee—whose details remain confidential to prevent political interference—regional caucuses have been formed in major cities, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Nyeri, Mombasa, and Wajir.
These groups, led by political figures, are actively mobilizing support ahead of the grand reception.
Upon his return, Matiang’i is expected to embark on a nationwide grassroots engagement tour before formally unveiling his political party and presidential bid.
Sources indicate that his reception will be a spectacle, beginning with a grand welcome at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, followed by a procession through Nairobi’s Central Business District and culminating in a major rally.
The former ruling Jubilee Party, associated with retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, is among the political outfits that have offered Matiang’i a presidential ticket for the 2027 elections.
Additionally, parties from Kisii and Nyamira counties have formed a coalition known as the Taifa Alliance, aimed at consolidating the Abagusii community support behind Matiang’i’s candidacy.
