A fresh political storm is brewing in Kisii as state machinery is increasingly being deployed to counter the growing influence of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, who has recently declared his interest in vying for the presidency in 2027.
Matiang’i, who once wielded immense power under President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, has emerged as a central figure in the Gusii political landscape. His presidential bid has rattled political elites, triggering what analysts describe as a calculated effort by the state to weaken his support base.
State Power at Play
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and other senior government officials have intensified visits to Kisii and Nyamira, rallying locals to back President William Ruto. These tours are widely viewed as attempts to dilute Matiang’i’s growing popularity in the region.
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Behind the scenes, professionals from Gusii aligned with the Kenya Kwanza administration have also been mobilized to consolidate loyalty to the state. A series of high-level meetings in Nairobi have been convened, bringing together Kisii leaders and professionals to pledge unity behind Ruto and against Matiang’i.
Observers note that such moves reflect a broader state strategy: using both political persuasion and administrative influence to curtail rivals before campaigns officially begin.
Pressure Mounting on Matiang’i
This is not the first time Matiang’i has faced political resistance. Since leaving government in 2022, he has been subjected to investigations and sustained criticism from leaders allied to Ruto. Despite this, Matiang’i has maintained that his decision to run is motivated by service to the nation and not by fear of political opponents.
However, with the state machinery now visibly active in Kisii, the contest is shaping into a fierce battle of influence. Questions are being raised about the fairness of deploying state resources in what should be a free and competitive political space.
Implications for 2027 Elections
Kisii has traditionally been a swing voting bloc in Kenyan politics. Analysts believe that whoever controls the region could hold a significant advantage in the 2027 race. The state’s heightened activity in Kisii suggests the government is keen on ensuring the region does not become Matiang’i’s launchpad to the presidency.
As political tension escalates, civil society groups and ordinary citizens are calling for a level playing field, warning that the use of state power against opponents undermines democracy.
For now, all eyes remain on Kisii, where the political chessboard is being reconfigured — and where the battle between state influence and Matiang’i’s grassroots support could define the next phase of Kenya’s politics.