Meru, Kenya;  Presidential hopeful Dr. Fred Matiang’i has firmly dismissed reports linking him to possible collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza government ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Dr. Matiang’i, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary, said he remains committed to the ideals of the opposition movement, which seeks to unseat President William Ruto in the next polls. He described suggestions of joining the ruling coalition as “nonsense,” stressing that he would rather spend time at home with his family than work with the current administration.

“Sometimes I get annoyed when I see this nonsense in the newspapers—that I am going to work with these people. That I will work with some people whose names I don’t even want to mention. How can that be? You don’t know these people; I know them very well and the stuff they are made of,” he said.

Last week, a local daily reported that Matiang’i was among individuals being considered as a potential running mate for President Ruto, as political realignments intensify and opposition tensions grow.

Speaking on Saturday in Muthara, Tigania East, Meru County, during the burial of former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya’s grandmother, Judith Mwakairu, Matiang’i rejected any suggestion of working with the UDA administration.

“These are people you can’t work with. Their attitude towards public service and public resources is one you can’t tolerate. Every day you wake up, it’s stealing. That’s what they have perfected — they should be awarded a PhD in looting,” he said.

 “Within three years, look at where we are as a country. Then someone dreams that I can work with such people? How? I would rather sit under a tree with my wife, parents, and community than work with them.”

Matiang’i recently announced that he has joined the Jubilee Party of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and intends to use the party’s ticket to run for the presidency. His move has sparked speculation that he could mount a solo bid, potentially fragmenting the opposition and boosting President Ruto’s re-election chances.

On Friday, Matiang’i addressed the Wiper Democratic Front (WDF) National Delegates Convention at Uhuru Park in Nairobi, where he reiterated his commitment to a united opposition and pledged to support the coalition’s chosen candidate against Ruto.

Meanwhile, Matiang’i faces a crucial test in his political backyard, with three by-elections scheduled for November 27 in Nyansiongo, Ekerenyo, and Nyamaiya Wards in Nyamira County. Although Jubilee is not fielding candidates, he is backing contestants from affiliate parties, including UPA and PDP, against stiff competition from UDA.

Political observers say the outcome of the by-elections will be a key indicator of Matiang’i’s strength on home turf and his influence within the broader opposition movement.

Matiang’i Dismisses Claims of Joining Kenya Kwanza Ahead of 2027 Elections