Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has taken a significant step toward a possible 2027 presidential bid by hiring Dickens & Madson, a Canadian lobbying firm, for a fee of KSh 32 million ($250,000).
This move signals Matiang’i’s intention to build a strong international support network as he seeks the highest office in Kenya.
Dickens & Madson, a lobbying and public relations firm based in Montreal, Canada, was founded by Ari Ben-Menashe, a controversial political consultant.
The firm has a reputation for working with clients under international scrutiny, providing services such as strategic advice, lobbying, and public relations.
Dickens & Madson focuses on influencing policy decisions by working with government officials and legislators from powerful countries.
According to the agreement signed on July 13, 2024, the firm is tasked with lobbying top governments, including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, and Kenya, on Matiang’i’s behalf.
The goal is to help him gain international support as he pursues his political ambitions.
Furthermore, the firm will assist Matiang’i in developing and implementing policies to stabilize and advance his political goals, particularly his desire to become President of Kenya in 2027.
Dickens & Madson has represented several foreign governments, many of which have poor human rights records or are facing sanctions.
The firm has been involved in lobbying efforts for Zimbabwe under President Emmerson Mnangagwa to promote land deals.
They are also attempting to improve the country’s international standing, despite widespread criticism.
One of the firm’s more contentious engagements involved lobbying for former criminal mastermind Paul Calder Le Roux, which raised ethical concerns about their clientele.
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