Kisii UPA Leaders Protest Fred Matiang’i’s Endorsement by Jubilee Party as Presidential Candidate
A dispute has emerged between the Jubilee Party and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), with both parties claiming Fred Matiang’i as their presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. The controversy erupted after Kisii UPA leaders condemned the Jubilee Party’s decision to endorse Matiang’i, asserting that he is their candidate.
UPA Leaders Call Out Jeremiah Kioni
UPA party Kisii chairman Nahashon Nyambane on Wednesday, February 26, criticized Jubilee’s backing of Matiang’i, emphasizing that the people of Kisii have already chosen him as their candidate. “Stay knowing that the people of Kisii have our candidate, Fred Matiang’i. We have organized ourselves,” Nyambane stated.
Another UPA official, Emmanuel Mwangi, echoed Nyambane’s sentiments, urging Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni to acknowledge that Matiang’i belongs to UPA. The leaders made it clear that they had engaged in discussions with Matiang’i, confirming that he would run under the UPA party ticket.
“We are addressing the Jubilee party and their leader, Jeremiah Kioni. Mr. Jeremiah Kioni, we want to plead with you. Our brother Fred Matiang’i is our candidate. He is our guy from Kisii land and is a member of our UPA political party and is our next candidate for the presidential seat,” Mwangi declared.
Matiang’i’s Track Record and Political Prospects
UPA leaders highlighted Matiang’i’s extensive experience, citing his tenure as Education Cabinet Secretary and his service in the Interior Ministry. They argued that his leadership credentials make him the right candidate to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.
Jubilee Party’s endorsement of Matiang’i was announced on Saturday, January 25, by Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, who expressed confidence that he has the ability to prevent President Ruto from securing a second term. Kioni urged Kenyans to rally behind Matiang’i, stating that a united opposition could remove the Kenya Kwanza government from power in the upcoming General Election.
He also encouraged the Mt. Kenya region to support leaders from minority communities, advocating for inclusivity in the country’s leadership.
Matiang’i Hints at 2027 Presidential Bid
On Monday, January 13, Matiang’i hinted at his presidential ambitions after receiving calls from former Thika MP Patrick Wainaina to enter the race. However, his bid has not been without criticism. On Monday, January 27, Narok Senator Ledama Olekina dismissed Matiang’i’s candidacy, arguing that he is not the right candidate to succeed President Ruto.
Despite mixed reactions, several Kenyans have pledged to support Matiang’i, citing his transformative projects during his time as a Cabinet Secretary. As the 2027 elections approach, the political landscape is expected to shift, with both Jubilee and UPA continuing their battle over his candidacy.
Stay tuned for more updates on Nairobian as the political drama unfolds.
In other news: Babu Owino Breaks Ranks with Raila, Endorses Kalonzo for 2027 Presidency
Kisii UPA Leaders Protest Fred Matiang’i’s Endorsement by Jubilee Party as Presidential Candidate