Former Intirrior CS Fred Matiang’i has unveiled a plan to address what he calls the “mismanagement and neglect” under President William Ruto’s administration, promising a government rooted in accountability, competence, and public service.
Speaking at a rally in Kisii County, Matiang’i accused the current government of rising debt, stalled projects, and weakening public institutions. “Kenya cannot continue on this path of impunity and mismanagement. I am committed to restoring integrity and ensuring that leaders answer to the people, not personal interests,” he said.
Central to Matiang’i’s agenda is accountability. He pledges to enforce existing laws to hold officials responsible for corruption, abuse of power, and inefficiency. He stressed that this would not be about political revenge but about justice and restoring public trust.
Education, he said, has suffered under the current administration. Matiang’i criticized delays in school funding, noting that students and schools have been unfairly penalized. “We must protect public resources for the sake of our children. Service to citizens cannot be optional,” he added.
Matiang’i also positioned himself as a unifying leader, rejecting the notion that he is aligned with any single political patron. “My leadership is based on record and vision, not on tribal loyalty or patronage. Kenya needs a coalition built on competence and shared values, not personalities,” he said.
Yet, critics point out that Matiang’i’s record as Interior Cabinet Secretary raises questions about his promises. During his tenure, he oversaw a controversial crackdown on journalists and civil society organizations, drawing criticism for heavy-handed tactics. He was also accused of failing to prevent cases of police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and excessive use of force during security operations, particularly in Nairobi’s informal settlements. Human rights groups said some of his security policies curtailed freedoms under the guise of law and order.
Addressing concerns about a peaceful transition of power, Matiang’i assured Kenyans that any change would be lawful and orderly. “The goal is not to settle scores but to create a government that works for every Kenyan,” he emphasized.
