Matiang’i Sets Fresh Conditions for Opposition Ahead of 2027 Presidential Race
Jubilee Party deputy leader and 2027 presidential hopeful, Fred Matiang’i, has outlined new expectations for the opposition coalition regarding the process of selecting their presidential candidate.
Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday, February 18, shortly after being officially endorsed by the PNU party as their preferred candidate for the top seat, Matiang’i emphasized the importance of an inclusive and transparent approach.
He stressed that forming alliances is just as crucial as the final outcome of the nomination process. According to him, the method of selecting a candidate must reflect fairness and involve all relevant stakeholders, including the general public.
“From my perspective, the process must be inclusive because in alliance building, the process itself carries as much weight as the outcome.
When you have five candidates, four will inevitably not get the nomination, and they need to be able to convincingly explain to their supporters that the selection was fair and agreed upon,” Matiang’i explained.
He added, “If unity is truly our goal, inclusion cannot be overlooked. This means being open and transparent, and the people of Kenya should be part of this process.” Matiang’i called on the opposition to actively involve citizens in choosing a candidate to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 general elections.
Matiang’i’s comments come amid rising competition within the opposition coalition, with multiple principals lobbying for the coalition’s endorsement to run for president.
Despite the internal rivalry, the opposition has consistently maintained that it intends to present a single candidate to take on Ruto, warning that any division would make it easier for the current president to secure victory.
The coalition initially announced that it would reveal its chosen candidate in April 2026, several months ahead of the elections.
However, there are voices within the group advocating for a later announcement in early 2027. In the meantime, opposition leaders have been touring the country, openly expressing their ambitions for the top seat, which has raised questions about the coalition’s unity.
Despite these internal shifts and jockeying for position, the opposition insists it remains cohesive. So far, Fred Matiang’i and Kalonzo Musyoka are considered the leading contenders, with one expected to be formally declared as the coalition’s presidential candidate.
“For anyone betting on our divisions, you will be disappointed. We will stand together and maintain our unity,” Matiang’i stated at an earlier event, underlining the coalition’s commitment to solidarity.
The opposition coalition brings together several prominent political figures, including Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and Justin Muturi. Each continues to play a key role in shaping the group’s strategy as they prepare for the 2027 elections.
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