Jubilee presidential hopeful Dr Fred Matiang'i returned to the Gusii region on Friday, directly challenging President William Ruto’s recent political activities in the area. Matiang'i stated that the President’s four-day tour, which concluded on Wednesday, was a "non-starter" and would not alter the political allegiance of the Abagusii community. The former Interior Cabinet Secretary attended the burial of his uncle, Mzee John Mboga Nyaboga, in Manga, Borabu Constituency, Nyamira County, where he addressed mourners and the media regarding the political climate in the region.
According to the Nation, Matiang'i characterized President Ruto’s interactions with voters as an "auction" where the highest bidders seek to control the narrative. He accused the Head of State of distributing money and making empty promises, which he claimed have made the people of Gusii tired of such tactics. "Our people cannot be bought; they are not for sale," Matiang'i stated, adding that the community has come of age and will not change its political stand due to handouts. He criticized the President for bringing people in and launching projects that he described as non-existent, arguing that this behavior shows desperation and a lack of respect for the dignity of the presidency.
The Jubilee candidate also warned political rivals against using intimidation or violence to recruit supporters. He noted that some elected leaders in Kisii have resorted to goonism after realizing their parties are unpopular in the region. Matiang'i emphasized that the Gusii people are peace-loving and abhor violence, asserting that such tactics will not work. He further criticized the current government for corruption and insecurity, citing the out-of-control cattle rustling in the region as evidence of the administration's failures.
Accompanying Matiang'i were Nyamira Senator Okong'o Omogeni and Members of Parliament Patrick Osero and Clive Gisairo. Omogeni highlighted the economic struggles of local farmers, noting that tea bonuses have been low under Ruto’s four-year tenure. Gisairo urged the President to respect the community and its leaders. Matiang'i announced that he will hold a series of rallies across Gusii to counter the President's inroads, with a major rally scheduled for Sunday in Kisii town and Keroka, attended by opposition leaders Ndindi Nyoro, Martha Karua, and James Orengo.