Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has said he is open to supporting former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i for the presidency in 2027—on the condition that Matiang’i first secures full backing from his Kisii community.
Speaking in an interview on May 12, 2025, Gachagua praised Matiang’i’s growing national presence, describing it as a step forward for the Abagusii people. However, he stressed that national leadership must begin with strong grassroots support.
“Matiang’i is qualified, bold, and capable. But does he have the backing from home? Without full support from Kisii, where will his campaign go?” Gachagua questioned.
To determine Matiang’i’s popularity in the region, Gachagua said he had sent a 20,000-member team to assess the political mood on the ground.
“I want to know if what we see on TV reflects the reality on the ground,” he explained.
Calls for a United Opposition
Gachagua emphasized the importance of a united opposition to challenge President William Ruto in 2027. He noted that his support for Matiang’i—or any other opposition figure—would depend on an agreed formula.
“I will support Matiang’i if he emerges as the consensus candidate. But if it’s Kalonzo or even myself, that’s fine too. What matters is unity and strategy,” he said.
He downplayed personal ambition, saying Kenya’s problems require a team effort, not individual glory.
“I don’t have to be president. I can serve in any role as long as the team delivers. The same goes for Matiang’i and Kalonzo,” he added.
Gachagua also pointed out that supporting a candidate without full backing from their home region would be politically risky.
“You can’t ask me to support someone whose own people are not united behind him. That would not make sense,” he said.
Advice to Matiang’i: Resign Properly
Gachagua urged Matiang’i to officially resign from his role at the World Bank before fully venturing into politics.
“He should return, collect his documents, and hand over properly. That way, he leaves with dignity—for himself, for the community, and for Kenya,” he said.
Message to the Kisii Community
Gachagua also sent a message to the Kisii community, warning them against creating divisions after encouraging Matiang’i to join politics.
“You can’t ask someone to leave his job and then start fighting him or insulting him. That would be unfair. He accepted your call to serve,” he said.
