Matiang’i Takes a Swipe at Ruto Over Political Meetings, Says He Does Not Ferry Supporters in Buses

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has taken a swipe at President William Ruto, accusing him of relying on transported crowds to attend political meetings while questioning the government’s ability to address the challenges facing Kenyans.

Matiang’i, who has increasingly featured in discussions surrounding the political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election, appeared to challenge Ruto’s approach to mobilising supporters, insisting that he does not use buses to ferry people to political gatherings.

In remarks that could intensify the political exchanges between government and opposition figures, Matiang’i directly addressed the President, suggesting that the administration was struggling to manage the country’s affairs.

“RUTO, naelewa sana SERIKALI kukushinda, mimi sibebangi watu na Mabasi kuleta kwa mikutano kama wewe,” Matiang’i said.

Translated into English, the former Interior CS told Ruto that he understood how governing the country could become overwhelming, adding that he did not transport people in buses to attend his political meetings.

The remarks are likely to attract attention as politicians begin positioning themselves ahead of the next general election, with questions surrounding political mobilisation, public support and the performance of the Kenya Kwanza administration expected to feature prominently in campaigns.

Matiang’i served as Interior Cabinet Secretary under former President Uhuru Kenyatta and was previously in charge of several key government departments.

His experience in the executive has continued to feature in political discussions as leaders debate the country’s leadership and future direction.

His latest remarks also highlight the growing competition among political figures seeking to demonstrate their popularity through public meetings and grassroots mobilisation.

For Ruto, political rallies have remained an important platform for communicating government policies, defending his administration’s record and responding to critics.

His supporters have consistently presented the President’s public engagements as evidence of his connection with ordinary Kenyans.

However, opposition figures have frequently questioned the significance of large crowds at political events, arguing that attendance alone does not necessarily translate into electoral support.

Matiang’i’s comments add another dimension to the ongoing political contest, with leaders increasingly using public platforms to challenge one another over leadership, governance and political credibility.

As the country moves closer to the 2027 polls, such exchanges are expected to become more common, particularly as potential presidential contenders seek to distinguish themselves from the incumbent.

Whether Matiang’i’s remarks will trigger a direct response from Ruto remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the statement has placed the question of political mobilisation and genuine grassroots support back at the centre of Kenya’s unfolding political debate.

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