Matiang'i's visit sparks political shift in Narok

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has ignited political tremors in Narok County, as his bid for the presidency in 2027 begins to reshape the opposition landscape and stir potential realignments in the Rift Valley.

In a series of carefully orchestrated meetings, Dr. Matiang’i met with former Narok North MP and 2022 gubernatorial contender Moitalel Ole Kenta at his Ilariak resort at the end of last week.

The closed-door meeting—attended by local elders and political heavyweights—has fueled speculation of a brewing alliance aimed at consolidating the Maa nation vote and challenging the dominance of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in the region.

Speaking after the meeting, Matiang’i described the discussions as “fruitful and forward-looking,” emphasising his desire to build a coalition grounded in integrity, inclusivity, and service delivery.

His visit came just days after President William Ruto toured the region, signaling a mounting political contest for influence in the Rift Valley stronghold.

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During his visit to Narok, President Ruto launched a series of development projects, including infrastructure upgrades and community empowerment initiatives.

Addressing residents at a public rally in Narok South, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering on promises made during the 2022 campaign.

 “The Maa community remains a key partner in our journey of transformation,” Ruto declared, touting his government’s investment in pastoralist areas and efforts to integrate marginalised regions into the national development agenda.

However, political analysts view the timing of the tour as more than routine governance.

Coming on the heels of rising discontent among sections of the Rift Valley electorate and internal wrangles within UDA, Ruto’s trip was widely seen as a strategic move to reaffirm his grip on the vote-rich region.

His presence appeared aimed at countering the growing influence of emerging opposition figures—most notably Matiang’i—whose recent activities signal serious intent to woo communities traditionally aligned with the ruling coalition.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Tongoyo, the Narok West MP and Chair of the National Assembly Committee on Security—is reportedly reconsidering his ties with UDA.

Sources close to the lawmaker suggest he may be aligning himself with Matiang’i’s camp, potentially signaling a wider defection of Rift Valley leaders disillusioned with the current administration.

Fueling this speculation was the presence of Mzee Kali Ole Sayialel, a respected kingpin of the influential Ilmakesen clan, Tongoyo’s and Kenta’s clansman and close ally.

Mzee Sayialel attended the meeting with both Matiang’i and Kenta in what insiders describe as a high-stakes consultation over Narok’s political future.

While the exact agenda of the meeting remains undisclosed, political observers believe the talks centered on the 2027 gubernatorial race.

Kenta is expected to make a second bid for the county’s top seat against the seating Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, while Tongoyo is also rumored to be eyeing the position, either independently or in coordination with Kenta under a unified opposition banner.

“The presence of both Kenta and Tongoyo in the same orbit as Matiang’i points to more than coincidence,” a political analyst familiar with the region noted.

“It suggests strategic positioning, perhaps even early power-sharing negotiations.”

Matiang’i’s Narok engagements come hot on the heels of his official campaign launch at Gusii Stadium on May 2, and a flurry of consultations with opposition heavyweights including Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Martha Karua.

His effort to galvanize support in key swing counties reflects a broader strategy to present a disciplined, reform-driven alternative to the current regime.

With tensions simmering and loyalties shifting, Narok County is fast emerging as a pivotal battleground in the lead-up to the 2027 general election.

As Matiang’i courts key power brokers and deepens his reach into the Rift Valley, the stage is set for a high-stakes political showdown that could redefine Kenya’s electoral map.