Nairobi Senator Karen Nyamu has poured cold water on the idea of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i challenging President William Ruto in the 2027 elections, arguing that Matiang’i lacks the political experience and national appeal required to mount a serious presidential campaign.
Speaking during a media interview, Nyamu questioned Matiang’i’s credentials beyond his role as a Cabinet Secretary, pointing out that he has never held elective office or navigated the country’s complex political terrain from the ground up.
“What is the experience of Matiang’i? He has just been appointed as a CS. We need someone who has an overall approach,” Nyamu stated.
She contrasted Matiang’i’s record with that of President Ruto, who she said has earned his position through decades of public service.
“William Ruto has been a CS, MP, Deputy President… so we would trust him. He has risen through the ranks. He knows his way around this government,” she added.
Nyamu also took the opportunity to criticize the current state of opposition politics, singling out the Jubilee Party under Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni as irrelevant.
“Jubilee has outlived its usefulness. That is how politics is,” she said. “The only party that has stood the test of time and that needs to be studied is ODM because they have been there over several elections.”
She concluded by asserting that, in Kenya, political parties often serve as temporary election vehicles, and Jubilee’s time was up. “If you ask me, Jubilee is done,” Nyamu declared.
Her remarks come amid growing political speculation ahead of 2027, with various figures in the opposition and former government circles being floated as potential challengers to President Ruto’s re-election bid.
