Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has resurfaced once again in Kenya’s political discourse just about a year after he was forced to exit the country’s public space after his home was raided by government agents.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Saturday commended Matiang’i for his exemplary public service becoming the latest County chief to make similar remarks after Amos Nyaribo(Nyamira) and Simba Arati(Kisii).
During the ‘Omogusii Thanksgiving Sabbath’ organized by leaders and members of the Gusii community, Sakaja hailed Matiang’i as one of the outstanding leaders produced by the Gusii community.
He acknowledged Matiang’i’s merit despite differing with him politically in the run up to the 2022 elections.
“The kind of public officers you’ve given us over the years… you know them. Look at CS Machogu. Look at the kind of man he is. Remember Matiang’i? Even if we did not agree politically, that was a sterling public officer….Justice Maraga, Justice of the Supreme Court of Kenya, diligent, honest, beyond reproach,” Sakaja said.
Echoing Sakaja’s sentiments, other leaders at the event expressed their desire for Matiang’i to re-enter public service.
Rigoma Ward MCA and former journalist Nyambega Gisesa urged Matiang’i to consider pursuing the country’s highest office when the opportune moment arises.
Drawing parallels with recent political alliances, Gisesa urged support for Matiang’i’s potential candidacy, likening it to the cooperation between Raila Odinga and William Ruto.
“We have seen Baba (Raila Odinga) and Ruto come together and Ruto is now helping him get the African Union Commission seat. We want you CS Ezekiel Machogu to also help Matiang’i get back into public service because he was a top leader,” Gisesa said.
Matiang’i, renowned for his effective leadership across various ministerial portfolios under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, notably in ICT, Education, and Interior, faced challenges amid shifting political dynamics.
His alignment with Uhuru and his allies, including Raila, strained his relationship with Ruto, then Deputy President. However, following intervention from Gusii leaders, a reconciliation was achieved, diffusing tensions between Matiang’i and the Ruto administration.
Since then, Matiang’i has maintained a relatively low profile, staying out of the public eye.
