Fred Matiang’i has been a significant figure in Kenyan politics. Despite having no political experience prior to his appointment to former President Uhuru’s cabinet, Matiang’i built a reputation for being a results-driven leader who didn’t shy away from tough decisions.
From overhauling Kenya’s education system, overseeing digital migration, to tightening national security during turbulent times, he earned both admiration and criticism for his no-nonsense leadership style.
Now, rumors are swirling that he’s preparing for a presidential bid in 2027. With reports of him hiring a global lobbying firm and assembling a campaign team, it’s clear that Matiang’i is considering the highest office in the land.
But the big question remains: if he runs—and wins—what kind of leader would he be?
Let’s explore what a Matiang’i presidency might mean for Kenya by diving into the good, the bad, and the unexpected possibilities.
What Makes Matiang’i Stand Out
Matiang’i isn’t your typical politician. He made his mark as a Cabinet Secretary by focusing on results, despite opposition from key stakeholders.
When he was appointed as the Cabinet Secretary for Education, one of his first major initiatives was to tackle the widespread problem of cheating in national exams. For years, cheating had been a national embarrassment, undermining the credibility of Kenya’s education system.
Under Matiang’i, however, the scourge was almost eradicated. He implemented stringent measures, such as placing exam officials under heavy scrutiny and introducing technological innovations to monitor the process more closely. As a result, exam integrity was restored, earning him the admiration of parents, teachers, and the public.
Fred Matiang’i’s role as Cabinet Secretary for ICT was marked by the contentious digital migration from analogue to digital broadcasting in Kenya. Despite opposition from major media houses like Standard Group, Nation Media Group, and Royal Media Services, who requested more time to adjust, Matiang’i stood firm, declaring that there would be no turning back to analogue.
The move, though unpopular at the time, was in line with a Supreme Court order mandating the switch to digital. Matiang’i’s decisive leadership during this period reinforced his image as a figure willing to push forward with difficult but necessary reforms, even at the cost of public backlash
As Interior Cabinet Secretary, Matiang’i was thrust into one of the most challenging roles in government, tasked with overseeing national security and public order at a time when the country was grappling with multiple threats.
The rise of terrorist attacks, particularly from Al Shabaab, and the volatile political environment put immense pressure on his leadership. However, Matiang’i took charge, cracking down on crime, implementing tighter security measures, and showing a level of control that was rare in Kenyan politics.
His leadership during the 2017 elections, for example, was crucial in maintaining peace despite the tensions that led to widespread protests and violence. His firm stance on security earned him the nickname “Super CS” and cemented his reputation as a no-nonsense leader who was committed to protecting the country at all costs.
Despite his performance, some people view his tough approach as overly authoritarian. Critics argue that his methods in handling security during his time in office, as well as his close ties to the previous administration, could alienate voters who seek more democratic engagement and transparency in governance.
The Case against Matiang’i
While Fred Matiang’i has earned praise for his tough leadership and decisive action, not everyone sees him in a positive light.
One of the major criticisms against him is his handling of opposition protests during the 2017 elections. As Interior Cabinet Secretary, he was responsible for overseeing security during a period of intense political turmoil. Following the contested re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta, opposition leader Raila Odinga called for mass protests and boycotted the repeat presidential vote.
The government’s response was swift and, according to many human rights organizations, overly forceful. Amnesty International and other groups accused Matiang’i’s administration of using excessive force to suppress protests, leading to deaths and injuries among protestors.
The brutal crackdown left a dark mark on his record and soured his image for many Kenyans who saw it as a violation of democratic rights. For some, these events are not easily forgotten, and they could become a key issue in any campaign for higher office, particularly as the country continues to grapple with recent cases of abductions and police brutality following the Gen-Z/Finance Bill 2024 protests.
Ahmednasir Abdullahi, a lawyer and ally of President William Ruto, recently added fuel to this fire when he publicly accused Matiang’i of benefiting from political connections during his rise through the ranks. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Abdullahi suggested that Matiang’i’s journey from a university lecturer to a powerful minister was not a result of merit alone, but rather political patronage from the Uhuru administration.
The implication here is that Matiang’i, like many other politicians, may have been part of a corrupt system that enriched a few while leaving many Kenyans behind. This narrative is dangerous for Matiang’i, as it could paint him as part of the establishment that many voters feel has failed them. In a country where corruption remains a critical issue, any association with it could seriously damage his credibility and hinder his prospects in a presidential race
Whether he can shake off these controversies and present himself as a reformist leader will be key to his success or failure in the 2027 elections.
The Political Road Ahead
Matiang’i faces a tough political road ahead as he sets his sights on the 2027 presidency. The Kenya Kwanza alliance, which Ruto leads, continues to dominate much of the political sphere, leaving little room for challengers.
Additionally, opposition leader Raila Odinga, despite being in the twilight of his political career, still wields considerable influence and has a loyal base. Odinga’s continued relevance and his ability to rally opposition support will make it difficult for any new contender to break through, especially in the wake of the highly charged 2022 elections
However, despite these challenges, there are opportunities for Matiang’i. One of the most significant factors working in his favor is the growing frustration among ordinary Kenyans with the current administration. The rising cost of living, high levels of unemployment, and increasing inflation have left many disillusioned with President Ruto’s government.
As Kenyans feel the pinch of economic difficulties, they may be looking for an alternative leader who can offer practical solutions and a sense of hope. Matiang’i’s reputation for getting things done could resonate with voters who are tired of empty promises and want results.
Many young Kenyans, who are facing challenges like unemployment and limited opportunities, may see him as a new kind of leader—a break from the old political guard. His previous experience in reforming education and security could also make him a symbol of progress in the eyes of the youth.
If he can effectively tap into this demographic, Matiang’i could potentially gain traction as a presidential candidate who understands their concerns and is capable of offering a solution to their struggles. However, for this to happen, Matiang’i will need to build strong alliances with other political figures and craft a clear, compelling vision for Kenya’s future that resonates with voters across the political spectrum
What Could a Matiang’i Presidency Look Like?
If Fred Matiang’i were to become president, his administration would likely be defined by a strong emphasis on discipline, accountability, and results.
Throughout his time as Cabinet Secretary for Education, Interior, and ICT, Matiang’i has demonstrated a no-nonsense approach to leadership. His reforms in education, such as overhauling the national examination system and tackling cheating show his commitment to efficiency and integrity.
Under a Matiang’i presidency, we could expect similar efforts to clean up government institutions, hold officials accountable, and ensure that public resources are used effectively. His strong work ethic could push for improvements in sectors like education, health, and infrastructure, areas where Kenya continues to face challenges
However, his leadership style may not be universally embraced. He has been described as authoritarian by some, particularly during his handling of the 2017 election protests, when his government’s response was seen as overly harsh.
Critics worry that this rigid approach could translate into an overly centralized style of governance, where dissent or opposing views are not tolerated. The challenge for Matiang’i, if he becomes president, would be finding a balance between maintaining order and allowing democratic freedoms to flourish.
Bottom Line
Even if he doesn’t win, Matiang’i’s candidacy in 2027 General Election is important. It forces Kenyans to think about what kind of leadership they want.
Do they value efficiency over populist politics? Are they ready for a leader who doesn’t play by the usual political rules? These are the questions Matiang’i’s campaign would bring to the table. Whether he runs or not, his influence on Kenyan politics will be felt for years to come.
What do you think—would Matiang’i make a good president?