Matiang'i Returns to Gusii, Slams Ruto's Visit as 'Non-Starter'

Dr. Fred Matiang'i, a Jubilee presidential hopeful, has returned to Gusii, two days after President William Ruto concluded his four-day tour of the region. Matiang'i declared that Ruto's visit was a non-starter and will not change the political stance of the Abagusii community. He stated that the people of Gusii are tired of false promises from the President and will remain firmly in the opposition. Matiang'i criticized Ruto for turning Kenyan politics into an auction where the highest bidders seek to control the narrative.

Matiang'i expressed his disappointment with Ruto's behavior during his visit, saying the President distributed money to locals, which he described as an attempt to bribe them. He emphasized that the people of Gusii have come of age and cannot be swayed by handouts. "The heart, soul, and conscience of our people in Gusii are not for sale," Matiang'i said. He also noted that Ruto's behavior shows his level of desperation and that the President has little to offer Gusii residents.

The former Interior Cabinet Secretary scheduled a series of rallies across Gusii to counter Ruto's inroads. On Friday, he attended the burial of his uncle, Mzee John Mboga Nyaboga, in Borabu Constituency, Nyamira County. Matiang'i addressed mourners, stating that he will not respond to Ruto's insults and that vote hunting should be done respectfully. He criticized the government for corruption, citing it as the greatest problem facing the country.

Matiang'i challenged Ruto to conduct himself in accordance with the responsibilities of his office, stating that the President has stooped too low. He criticized Ruto for insulting people and launching non-existent projects. Matiang'i stated that no leader has degraded the dignity of the presidency like Ruto. He emphasized that Kenyans have expectations of how the President should conduct himself, as he is referred to as the father of the nation.

Matiang'i warned political rivals against intimidating or harassing Jubilee supporters to join their parties. He noted that some elected leaders in Kisii have resorted to violence after realizing their parties were unpopular in the region. Matiang'i stated that goonism and violence will not work in Gusii, as the people are peace-loving and abhor violence. He was accompanied by Nyamira Senator Okong'o Omogeni and Members of Parliament Patrick Osero and Clive Gisairo.

Omogeni and Gisairo also criticized Ruto's visit, stating that the President has failed the Gusii community. Omogeni noted that farmers in the area have been receiving very low tea bonuses, while Gisairo urged Ruto to respect the Gusii community. Matiang'i is expected to hold a major rally in Kisii town and Keroka on Sunday, accompanied by fellow opposition leaders Ndindi Nyoro, Martha Karua, and James Orengo.

Ruto concluded his four-day tour of Gusii on Wednesday, launching several development projects and urging locals to vote for leaders aligned with his government. Matiang'i's return to Gusii and his criticism of Ruto's visit signify a continued battle for influence in the region. The outcome of this political tussle remains to be seen as the region prepares for upcoming elections.

Key points

• Dr. Fred Matiang'i returns to Gusii to counter President Ruto's visit and influence.
• Matiang'i criticizes Ruto's behavior and accusations of bribery and insults.
• The political tussle between Matiang'i and Ruto signifies a continued battle for influence in Gusii.