Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni and Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo have held talks to advance former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s potential presidential bid.
Nyaribo is the leader of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) which was closely associated with Matiang’i ahead of the 2022 general election.
The meeting comes amid a series of political discussions among leaders backing Matiang’i’s candidacy for the 2027 presidential race.
Both Jubilee and UPA have expressed interest in fielding him as their presidential flagbearer. However, the latest talks are seen as part of a broader strategy to build a united front ahead of the elections.
“Early morning deliberations with H.E. Governor Nyaribo, Party Leader of UPA and Governor of the great County of Nyamira,” Kioni posted on his X account.
He stated that their discussions focused on national discourse, the state of the country, and the leadership of their preferred presidential candidate, Matiang’i.
“A timely
and critical conversation on the future of our country,” he added.
On Tuesday, Kioni announced that a coalition of political parties from the Kisii and Mt. Kenya regions supporting Matiang’i will hold weekly strategy meetings.
The former Ndaragwa MP revealed that at least 20 political parties have intensified consultations to consolidate support for Matiang’i ahead of his anticipated campaign launch.
Speaking to The Star, Kioni expressed optimism about Matiang’i’s chances, citing growing goodwill for his candidacy even before a formal declaration.
“The political climate is encouraging, and we have agreed to continue holding weekly consultations while broadening our engagements to strengthen support for Matiang’i,” he said.
Kioni also
emphasized the importance of grassroots mobilization, stating that each party
must actively build its support base and establish a national presence as part
of the movement’s strategy.
Although Matiang’i has yet to officially announce his candidacy, pressure is mounting on him to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.
His supporters argue that his track record in public service, particularly during his tenure as Cabinet Secretary under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, makes him a strong contender.
On Monday, Kioni led at least 20 political parties in unveiling a roadmap for collaboration aimed at bolstering Matiang’i’s 2027 presidential bid.
