Former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i known for his no-nonsense approach to governance has emphasized his unwavering commitment to delivering results for the Kenyan people amid what he terms as a failed regime.

The seasoned technocrat who jetted back to Kenya a few weeks ago after leaving his World Bank job to kick off his Presidential journey ahead of the 2027 general elections has once again through a candid and reflective statement declared that he is best suited to take over the Presidency.

“If people are really looking to get some work done, honestly, I am the guy to get things fixed.” said Matinag’i

Matiang’i, who has been a polarizing figure in Kenyan politics, particularly due to his handling of sensitive matters such as the controversial digital migration, reflected on some of the defining moments of his tenure. He recounted how he faced immense resistance from powerful cartels, both within and outside of government, during the digital migration initiative in 2015. At the time, many critics warned him that his actions could cost him his job, but he stood firm.

“I was even told by a very close friend that I was going to have a very short stint in government,” Matiang’i shared. “I said, if I lose my job for doing what’s right, then so be it. Look at where we are today in terms of broadcasting, courtesy of staying on the right track.”

His determination to confront entrenched interests didn’t stop with digital migration. Upon his appointment as Education CS, Matiang’i was warned about the entrenched cartels within the education sector, including those involved in textbook deals and exam malpractices. Undeterred, he responded with the same resolve: “I told them I’m going to try.”

For Matiang’i, leadership is about trust, honesty, and the ability to deliver tangible results. He expressed confidence that Kenyans are ready for leaders who can get things done, rather than those who rely on political theatrics.

“What this country needs is trust in leadership and honesty in delivery of public services. Kenyans are ready to build a team and work with people who can deliver services, and I’m all about delivering.”

However, his tenure has not been without controversy. Critics have pointed to the rising number of extrajudicial killings during his time as Interior CS, notably the infamous case of the bodies found in River Yala, which sparked widespread public outrage. While some have speculated that Matiang’i may have been involved in these matters, he strongly defended his record, highlighting the significant reforms made under his watch.

“Nilikuwa waziri wa usalama kwa miaka tano, na kusema tu ukweli, bila kujipiga kifua ama kujipigia debe, Marehemu Waziri John Michuki na mimi are the most consequential ministries of security in independent Kenya,” he remarked, emphasizing the critical role he and the late John Michuki played in shaping Kenya’s security landscape.

Turning to the political landscape ahead, Matiang’i addressed recent calls from some segments of the Kenyan public especially from Gen Zs to remove the sitting president before the 2027 elections.

“We won’t have stability outside the constitution. Chochote tunahitaji kufanya kwa nchi hii, ata iwe ni mambo ya kubadilisha uongozi ama kufanya kitu chochote. Tufanye kupitia kwa njia ya Katiba, it might work today but not tomorrow, outside of it is anarchy.”

Matiang’i also responded to those questioning his presidential ambitions, particularly those who claim that he is not a politician. In his response, he argued that the world is shifting towards technocrats who focus on delivering results, rather than engaging in political drama.

“The world is moving away from political theatrics and political drama. Even strong democracies are electing technocrats looking for people who can get the job done because everyone has come to the full realization that what matters most is not the stories we tell on political platforms but what’s actually done. What affects your life is the amount of money that you go home with and how you develop your life.”

Finally, Matiang’i addressed the ongoing political standoff with President William Ruto, dismissing any possibility of dialogue with the current head of state.

“What will he need from me? What will I tell him that he cannot hear from the people in the streets? What can I tell him that he is not hearing from the Gen Z? Hiyo ni kujifanya,” Matiang’i remarked, dismissing the idea of engaging in any discussions with the president.

For Matiang’i, the future of Kenya lies in adherence to the Constitution and in delivering results regardless of the political theater. His clear stance on leadership, coupled with his controversial yet impactful legacy, has made him one of the most formidable figures in Kenya’s recent political history.