Fred Matiang’i is preparing for a massive return to politics with a Sh50 billion presidential campaign fund as he sets his sights on challenging President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary is not just returning to the political scene, he is doing so with backing from powerful local, regional, and international financiers who are determined to remove Ruto from power.
This campaign is being organized with careful planning and deep financial support from various quarters that have grown increasingly uncomfortable with Ruto’s leadership style.
People close to Matiang’i have confirmed that funding is already being mobilized and his campaign strategy is ready. His team plans to make a strong attempt for State House with or without support from key figures like former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua or Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
The motivation behind this campaign is being fueled by discontent from political dynasties, regional rivals of Ruto, and foreign organizations unhappy with Kenya’s recent crackdowns on freedoms and opposition voices.
Former president Uhuru Kenyatta is reportedly leading the local support by pumping Sh200 million into revamping Jubilee Party campaign trucks. The Kenyatta family has also pledged Sh5 billion, with another Sh5 billion expected from their wealthy allies.
The Nyachae family, known for their loyalty to Matiang’i, have pledged Sh2 billion. This loyalty traces back to the late Simeon Nyachae, who once mentored Matiang’i and whose legacy continues to influence Gusii politics today.
In Mombasa, prominent tycoons like Ashok Doshi and Mohammed Madhubuti have pledged financial support. Kisumu’s business giants, including Kiran and Nishal Shah of Swan Industries, are also backing the campaign due to their connection with the Nyachae family.
In the Rift Valley, Gideon Moi has promised Sh3 billion and is rallying other wealthy Kalenjin elites to add another Sh2 billion.
These donors feel left out of Ruto’s inner circle, which they say is now dominated by newcomers like Oscar Sudi and Farouk Kibet.
On the international scene, Matiang’i is getting support from leaders like Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and DRC’s President Felix Tshisekedi. Both leaders accuse Ruto of interfering in their countries’ affairs, including hosting rebels and enabling illegal trade through Kenya.
This international anger has now turned into political backing for Matiang’i.Matiang’i has also contracted Canadian lobbying firm Dickens and Madson, paying them Sh8.4 million with an annual retainer of Sh32.3 million. The firm is known for shaping the image of African politicians abroad and will be lobbying global powers to support his candidacy.
They will handle everything from lobbying the US Congress to producing campaign materials and strengthening his international image.
Groups like the Ford Foundation, which reportedly had a falling out with Ruto after being accused of sponsoring anti-government protests in 2024, are also said to be supporting Matiang’i behind the scenes.
Darren Walker of the Ford Foundation even met Matiang’i in the US and pledged informal support. Signs of Matiang’i’s readiness are already showing. Jubilee-branded campaign trucks with the slogan “Mbele Pamoja” have been seen in parts of the country.
The trucks reportedly cost over Sh30 million and are just the beginning. More vehicles and logistical bases are being prepared across Kenya as Matiang’i gets ready to launch his national campaign.
Matiang’i is expected to return to Kenya on June 21 after officially leaving his role at the World Bank. Once back, he will begin a countrywide tour to gather support and rebuild his political base. Even before he left for the US, Matiang’i had already started grassroots mobilization and building ties with key opposition figures.
Uhuru Kenyatta is also said to be bringing together wealthy Kikuyu businessmen and former cabinet secretaries like Joe Mucheru, James Macharia, and Amina Mohammed to fund Matiang’i’s campaign. These individuals thrived under previous governments but feel ignored under Ruto’s leadership and are now determined to back a strong challenger.
The bond between Matiang’i and the Nyachae family is also playing a big role. During Simeon Nyachae’s funeral, Matiang’i gave a heartfelt speech crediting him for his rise in politics. That relationship has now turned into financial backing and political loyalty.
In response, Ruto has reportedly blocked Charles Nyachae from being appointed as IEBC chair, with Gachagua confirming that the move was personal and linked to long-standing tensions between the two families.
At the same time, the Ruto administration has intensified pressure on businesses linked to the Moi family. Police recently raided Kencont Freight Station, which is owned by Gideon Moi, over land issues. Many see this as political revenge for Gideon’s support of Matiang’i. The unfolding political battle is heating up fast, and Matiang’i’s well-funded campaign is now viewed as the most serious threat to Ruto’s re-election in 2027.
Add Comment