Uhuru Kenyatta Endorses Fred Matiang’i, Emphasizes Leadership Over Tribal Ties
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has publicly expressed his strong support for Fred Matiang’i, the former Cabinet Secretary, highlighting the latter’s leadership capabilities rather than any tribal connections. This endorsement came during a Jubilee Party delegates meeting held at Thika Greens in Murang’a county, where Uhuru emphasized the importance of merit and performance over other factors.
“I’m supporting Matiang’i because of his capacity, not his tribe. In fact, I don’t even know his home; I’ve never visited him, but he is a hardworking leader,” Uhuru stated, underscoring his belief in Matiang’i’s ability to lead effectively.
The declaration of support from Uhuru, a prominent figure within the party, has drawn significant attention. It is not only due to his influence but also because of Matiang’i’s impressive tenure in two of the most challenging government ministries. His work has earned him a reputation as a results-oriented leader.
Reforms in Education and Interior Ministries
Matiang’i was appointed as the Education Cabinet Secretary in 2015, where he quickly initiated reforms to address the widespread issues in the examination system. He introduced stringent security measures to ensure the integrity of national exams, implemented digital tracking of papers, and established a faster and more transparent marking process.
These actions significantly restored public confidence in the credibility of Kenya’s examination system, earning praise from across the political spectrum. His efforts were seen as a major step towards improving the quality of education in the country.
In 2017, Matiang’i took on the role of Interior Cabinet Secretary, continuing his no-nonsense approach to leadership. He spearheaded extensive security and governance reforms, overseeing major crackdowns on criminal networks and enforcing discipline within state agencies.
His directives included streamlining the public transport sector and regulating betting operations, reflecting a broader commitment to promoting order and accountability. Although his firm methods sometimes faced criticism from rights groups and parts of the opposition, Matiang’i was widely recognized as one of the most effective ministers in Uhuru’s administration.
Call for Unity and Peace
During the meeting, Uhuru also urged leaders from the Mount Kenya region to move away from divisive politics and focus on unity and mutual respect. He warned against insults directed at fellow leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“We won’t allow any Jubilee member to abuse leaders, including Gachagua or anyone else. We need peace in this country,” he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony within the party and the nation.
Uhuru reiterated that the Jubilee Party remains committed to promoting peace, unity, and fairness nationwide. He assured delegates that the party’s 2027 nominations would be transparent and free from favoritism.
Support from Jubilee Secretary General
Jubilee secretary general Jeremiah Kioni echoed Uhuru’s sentiments, affirming that the party fully supports Fred Matiang’i and will rally behind his leadership moving forward. This collective backing highlights the significance of Matiang’i’s contributions and the potential impact of his leadership in the future.