Matiang’i Announces 2027 Presidential Bid as Gachagua Accuses Ruto of Intimidation - October 2025

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i revealed his intention to vie for the presidency in 2027 on a Jubilee Party ticket, while also dismissing claims of a rift within the United Opposition. He emphasized that building unity takes time and patience. Concurrently, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused President William Ruto of intimidating and coercing his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidates contesting in upcoming by-elections. Gachagua asserted that a majority of his party's candidates have faced threats. In a separate announcement, President William Ruto said the government is reviewing a waiver of the national ID replacement fee to ensure no one is denied the opportunity to register as a voter, with a free replacement window extended until after the 2027 elections.