Former Interior Cabinet Secretary and Jubilee Party presidential hopeful Dr. Fred Matiang'i has called on political leaders to embrace peaceful campaigns and issue-based politics, urging supporters to reject intimidation and focus on addressing the needs of ordinary Kenyans as the 2027 election season gathers momentum.

Speaking during the official opening of Jubilee Party county offices in Kutus Town, Kirinyaga County, Matiang'i appealed to party members and aspirants to conduct themselves with dignity and respect while taking their campaigns directly to the people.

He encouraged leaders to engage with wananchi at the grassroots by visiting villages, listening to the concerns of young people, women and elders, and explaining the party's policies without resorting to insults or divisive politics.

"Kenya is a democratic country, and every political party has the constitutional right to campaign freely and peacefully. We must protect that democratic space and ensure our politics unite rather than divide the nation," Matiang'i said.

Promise of Fair Jubilee Primaries

The former Interior CS also sought to reassure Jubilee Party aspirants, promising that the party's nomination process would be transparent, credible and free from favoritism.

He said party tickets should be awarded based on the will of members rather than personal connections or political influence.

"Party tickets should be awarded fairly and transparently, without favoritism or personal influence. The most popular candidates should emerge through a free and fair nomination process," he said.

Matiang'i argued that credible party primaries are essential in strengthening internal democracy and giving members confidence in the electoral process.

Speaks Out on Mwea Rice Farmers

Turning to agriculture, Matiang'i criticized government policies that allow large-scale rice imports while locally grown rice remains unsold, saying the situation is hurting farmers in Mwea, one of Kenya's largest rice-producing regions.

He called on the government to prioritize local farmers by protecting domestic production and ensuring they receive fair returns for their hard work.

According to Matiang'i, empowering farmers is critical to boosting food security, creating jobs and strengthening the country's economy.

Leadership Should Be Measured by Results

On governance, Matiang'i said leadership should be judged by service delivery and tangible development rather than political rhetoric.

He argued that integrity, accountability and performance are the true indicators of effective leadership.

The Jubilee presidential hopeful said the party is seeking to lead the country not out of political rivalry but because it believes it can restore effective public service delivery, strengthen national security, revive agriculture and accelerate economic growth.

As political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, Matiang'i's message centered on peaceful competition, transparent party processes and policies that directly improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans, signaling the themes likely to shape his campaign in the months ahead.