Number Don’t Lie as Photos Show Matiangi’s Reception in Kisii Town Days After Ruto’s Four Days Tour

Dr. Fred Matiang’i has drawn thousands of supporters to Kisii Town this Sunday, in a show of strength that has quickly become the talk of the region.

The details come from his verified Facebook page, where he has shared photos from the rally and thanked residents for turning up.

In his post, the former Interior Cabinet Secretary has told the people of Kisii Town that their voice has been heard.

He has described the turnout as an extraordinary show of solidarity, hope and determination, and has said the overwhelming reception is a reminder of a shared desire for a united, prosperous and better Kenya.

He has closed with a pledge that Kenyans will fix the country together, and signed off with the “Mbele Pamoja” slogan.

The rally has taken place only days after President William Ruto’s four-day development tour of the Gusii region.

That visit has been the subject of sharp remarks from Matiang’i, who has argued that no project launched by the President has been seen in Kisii and Nyamira.

With the town now filled by his own supporters, many observers have begun comparing the two events, and his allies have been quick to say the numbers speak for themselves.

Matiang’i has not stood alone. He has been joined by key opposition leaders, among them Governor James Orengo and MP Nyoro, who have travelled in his convoy and shared the stage with him.

Their presence has given the gathering the look of a united front, and it has come on the heels of public endorsements from Orengo and from Linda Mwananchi MP Kibagendi earlier this weekend.

The day has also carried its share of political heat. Matiang’i has told Governor Simba Arati that he was warned against coming to Kisii, yet he has shown up regardless.

He has also claimed that some local leaders have planned to use goons against his events. No evidence has been made public to support the allegation, and the governor has not yet responded to the remarks reported so far.

It is worth noting that crowd size alone does not decide an election, and supporters of the President are likely to point out that development tours and political rallies serve different purposes. Even so, the turnout has handed Matiang’i’s team a strong talking point.

Attention now turns to how rival camps respond, and whether the momentum from Kisii carries into the next stop on his tour.

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