Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has confirmed that he is set to exit his role with the World Bank to focus on the political affairs back home in Kenya.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, Matiang’i revealed that he had formally communicated his decision to the World Bank, choosing not to renew his contract upon its expiry.
"I have indicated to the World Bank that I'm leaving," Matiang’i said.
"I've actually indicated that when my contract comes up for review, I will not renew it. In other words, I've given them my letter of departure from the Bank."
While he did not specify the exact month of departure, Matiang'i stated that the exit is intended to allow him to participate actively in the country's political affairs.
Matiang’i, who has been with the World Bank for nearly two years, has maintained a relatively low profile since leaving the government following the 2022 general elections.
His recent involvement with leaders from the opposition has signalled a possibility of him going for a top seat in the 2027 elections.
Already, members of the opposition have declared that the former CS is part of an arrangement that seeks to oust President William Ruto come 2027.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary said he is still consulting with like-minded leaders from various political parties before settling on a political vehicle for his campaign.
He noted that it would be premature to commit to a particular party at this stage without first considering the views of Kenyans.
“I think if I made a choice now and stuck to one political party, I will disadvantage others with whom I’m having discussions,” he said.
Matiang’i emphasised that the conversation will involve compromise and collaboration, revealing that his bid will not be under a single party, but rather a coalition of parties.
“The reality is that we chose democracy and we have many political parties. In Kenya, we have over 89 political parties and that’s how Kenyans want to organise their politics for the time being.”
He acknowledged that some parties, such as the former ruling Jubilee Party and UPA, have claimed him and expressed willingness to back him as their candidate.
However, he clarified that such endorsements are part of ongoing discussions.
“In fact, this afternoon I’m meeting another political party that is asking whether we can work together, and I have been asked this by seven or eight political parties.”
“It’s flattering that you have political leaders—so many political leaders—sitting down in their executive committees and saying maybe Fred Matiang’i should be our candidate even before I ask them. I don’t want to close the door on anyone; I want to have very comprehensive, inclusive, exhausting discussions with everyone, then we come together and work on a coalition.”
