Matiang’i Calls for Peaceful Politics, Says Kenyans Must Decide Country’s Leadership

Story By Monyonge O’kebati

Jubilee presidential candidate Dr Fred Matiang’i has called on Kenyans, particularly residents of the Rift Valley region, to embrace peaceful politics and reject intimidation ahead of the next General Election.

Speaking during a political rally in Njoro, Nakuru County, Matiang’i urged political leaders across party lines to conduct peaceful campaigns, insisting that the electorate must be allowed to make independent decisions about the country’s future.

Matiang’i, who was accompanied by PPK Party Leader Ndindi Nyoro and PLP Party Leader Martha Karua, said the opposition was committed to promoting peaceful coexistence while advocating for political and social change.

“Sisi katika upinzani tunahimiza siasa ya amani na kukaa pamoja,” Matiang’i said, reaffirming the opposition’s commitment to peaceful politics and unity among Kenyans.

He urged Rift Valley residents not to be intimidated by anyone because of their political choices, emphasizing that every Kenyan has the right to participate in the electoral process without fear.

“I am asking the people of Rift Valley to remain peaceful and not to be intimidated by anyone because of the election,” he said.

The former Cabinet Secretary also challenged leaders from all political parties to seek votes peacefully, warning against political conduct that could undermine national cohesion.

He maintained that the ultimate decision on who should lead Kenya rests with the people and should not be determined by a small group of individuals behind closed doors.

“The future of this country is very important. Your voice must be heard. The decision on who will lead this country cannot be made by a few people in a room,” Matiang’i said.

He called on Kenyans to actively participate in shaping the country’s political direction, arguing that the leadership of the nation should reflect the will of the electorate.

Matiang’i further sought to distinguish the opposition’s political message from slogans alone, saying the campaign should focus on delivering tangible change to the country.

“We are not just talking about ‘Wantam’; we are talking about ‘Wantam plus positive change,’” he said, linking the opposition’s political message to the need for meaningful improvements in governance and the lives of ordinary citizens.

His remarks placed emphasis on the need to move beyond campaign rhetoric and focus on the kind of leadership Kenyans want and the changes they expect from those seeking public office.

The Njoro rally brought together opposition leaders Matiang’i, Nyoro and Karua, who used the platform to advance their political message as the country moves towards the next electoral contest.

Matiang’i concluded by urging Kenyans to safeguard peace and national unity, saying the electoral process should provide citizens with an opportunity to choose leaders capable of steering the country towards a better future.

His message to residents of Rift Valley was clear: political competition should not divide communities, and the right to choose leaders must be protected through peaceful participation and respect for the democratic will of the people.