Karen Nyamu dismisses Matiang'i presidential bid, calls Jubilee "outdated"

Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has ruled out the possibility of a successful presidential run by former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, branding him as “inexperienced” for the country’s top office.

Speaking exclusively to The Standard, Nyamu drew a sharp contrast between Matiang’i and President William Ruto, saying the latter has a more suitable background for leadership.

“What is the experience of Matiang’i? He has just been appointed as a CS. We need someone who has an overall approach,” Nyamu said.

“William Ruto has been CS, MP, Deputy President, so we would trust him. He has risen through the ranks. He knows his way around this government,” she added.

Nyamu also took a jab at the Kioni-led Jubilee Party, which she dismissed as outdated.

“Jubilee has outlived its usefulness. That is how politics is,” she said.

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“The only party that has stood the test of time and that needs to be studied is ODM because they have been there over several elections. In Kenya, political parties are used as vehicles every election cycle. If you ask me, Jubilee is done,” she added.

Matiang’i, a former powerful figure in the previous administration, has recently emerged as a new entrant in the 2027 presidential race following a warm reception in his Kisii backyard. The former CS made a bold announcement during his homecoming rally at Gusii Stadium, where thousands turned up to welcome him.

"When I finished my work in the past regime, I moved out of the country to continue with another assignment. But the kind of overwhelming invitations I received over the times I have been away are such a great force that propelled me to come back. Will you support me on my way up?" Matiang’i asked the cheering crowd.

He later made a public appearance at former DP Rigathi Gachagua’s Wamunyoro home, accompanied by key opposition figures, including Martha Karua and Eugene Wamalwa, in a show of political alignment.

During the visit, Matiang’i reiterated his intention to return to active politics with a mission to reform leadership.

“We are ready to liberate this country. Some people questioned whether I was serious about returning to public life. I told them I have been serious all my life. I’m ready to fight the vices in our society so that people can trust their leaders again,” he said.