Former Interior Cabinet Secretary,Dr. Fred Matiang’i has declared that 2026 will be a year of intensified nationwide political campaigns, setting the stage for the 2027 General Election.
In his New Year message to Kenyans at home and abroad, Matiang’i said he and his allies would criss-cross the country throughout the year to engage citizens, listen to their concerns and popularise their political agenda. He described 2026 as a critical period for rebuilding public trust and offering what he termed a credible alternative to the current administration.
Matiang’i faulted the government over the high cost of living, unemployment, insecurity and alleged corruption, arguing that many Kenyans are struggling under worsening economic conditions. He said the nationwide tours would focus on mobilising citizens around issues of governance, accountability and economic recovery.
A key pillar of his message was voter mobilisation, particularly among the youth. Matiang’i urged young people to register as voters and take an active role in shaping the country’s future, calling on the electoral body to roll out an inclusive and accessible voter registration exercise across learning institutions and communities.
While he stopped short of formally declaring his presidential bid, political observers view the announcement of aggressive nationwide campaigns as a clear signal of his ambitions ahead of 2027. Matiang’i has in recent months been linked to opposition formations seeking to challenge President William Ruto’s administration.
His New Year declaration positions 2026 as a high-stakes political year, with Kenyans expected to witness heightened campaigns, alliances and debates as the country edges closer to the next general election.
