“No Excuses, Just Action”: Fred Matiang’i Sets His Sights on Kenya’s Top Seat

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has officially declared his intent to run for Kenya’s presidency in 2027—and he’s doing it with a bold promise: no blame games, no finger-pointing—just results.

Speaking to Kenyans in the United States during a recent address, Matiang’i emphasized the urgent need for responsible leadership and a united front to move the country forward. In a passionate and unapologetic tone, he distanced himself from the politics of excuses and pledged to take full responsibility if entrusted with leadership.

“Let’s not point fingers. Let’s focus on moving forward. The stars are ahead of us, and we must pursue them,” Matiang’i said. “I will not make excuses or blame anyone—I will take responsibility, and I am ready to be held accountable.”

A Vision of Serious, Accountable Leadership

Matiang’i underscored the magnitude of national leadership, calling it “serious business” that requires more than political games and empty rhetoric.

“No one will tell you the real pressure of leadership until you sit in that office and realise millions are listening to your decisions,” he said.

He acknowledged Kenya’s current economic and political struggles but framed them as solvable—if only the country rallies behind visionary leadership. “These challenges are momentary,” he added. “Kenya has the resources. We just need to put ourselves together and lead with clarity.”

Putting Education Back on Track

One of the key areas Matiang’i focused on was education. He lamented the reduced funding for schools and the growing instability in education policy, calling it a betrayal of the progress that had been made.

“We used to transfer Ksh.1,400 per primary school pupil and Ksh.22,000 per secondary school student. Now, I hear the amounts have been reduced, and in some cases, the money isn’t even reaching schools,” he said.

He emphasized that policy certainty is crucial in the education sector, noting that the anxiety among teachers and principals is rising due to inconsistent funding and shifting government priorities.

Calling on the Diaspora and Honoring Gen Z

In a heartfelt appeal, Matiang’i urged Kenyans in the diaspora to play a more active role in shaping the nation’s future, insisting that their contributions and voices are vital.

“We cannot build a future for Kenya without the diaspora. Your voice matters. Your presence counts.”

He also took a moment to honor the memory of the young Kenyans who lost their lives during last year’s Gen Z-led protests, describing them as heroes who demanded change.

“For us in Kenya, it’s now becoming what we consider the Gen Z month,” he said. “Let us observe two minutes of silence in honour of the lives of our young people we lost during the Gen Z uprising last year.”

The Road Ahead

Fred Matiang’i is not just hinting at a political comeback—he’s making it clear that he wants the top job and is ready for the weight it carries. With his no-nonsense tone and reform-centered message, he is positioning himself as the alternative to what many see as a disappointing status quo.

His challenge now? Convincing Kenyans that he’s not just ready to run—but ready to lead.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.