Rigathi Gachagua Calls on Kisii Leaders to Support Fred Matiang’i, Warns Against Undermining His Efforts

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a strong call to Kisii leaders, urging them to support and protect Dr. Fred Matiang’i as he continues to serve the nation and community. Gachagua warned against the divisive actions of younger leaders who, he says, are undermining Matiang’i’s efforts after his return from his high-level role at the World Bank.

In a statement today, Gachagua stressed that it would be a "grave mistake" for Kisii leaders to attack or undermine Matiang’i, a distinguished public servant who has offered himself to serve his people and the country at large. He pointed out that Matiang’i's return should be viewed as an opportunity for the region to benefit from his wealth of experience and international stature, not as an occasion for political infighting.

"It would be a grave mistake to ask Fred Matiang’i to leave his high-level role at the World Bank and return home as a community and national leader, only for him to be undermined by younger leaders from his own community," Gachagua stated. "Kisii leaders, it is time for you to stand up, protect, and support Matiang’i for offering himself to serve, rather than tear him down."

Dr. Matiang’i, who previously held several key government positions, including Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government, has been a significant figure in Kenyan politics and public service. After taking on an influential position at the World Bank, his potential return to national politics has stirred both excitement and controversy.

Gachagua expressed his disappointment at the actions of certain younger political figures within the Kisii community who, according to him, have been dismissive of Matiang’i's leadership and have attempted to undermine his standing. He cautioned that such divisiveness only weakens the region and diminishes the community’s ability to leverage the high-profile position Matiang’i holds.

“Matiang’i has served this country with distinction and continues to hold an influential role internationally. We should be rallying behind him, not tearing him down," Gachagua continued. "Kisii deserves leadership that is united and focused on lifting the community and the nation as a whole. Divisive politics will only hurt our people.”

The former Deputy President also pointed out that the Kisii community should recognize the immense value of having someone of Matiang’i’s caliber returning home with international experience and credibility. Gachagua argued that instead of engaging in destructive rivalry, local leaders should rally behind Matiang’i's leadership, allowing him to channel his expertise to benefit both the community and Kenya at large.

"I urge the younger leaders in Kisii to understand that leadership is not a zero-sum game," Gachagua said. "If Matiang’i succeeds, the entire region succeeds. Instead of attacking him, we should be ensuring that he is given the support and space to contribute meaningfully."

Gachagua’s call for unity comes at a time when Kenya is looking to strengthen its leadership and governance structures, with leaders from various regions urged to focus on collaboration rather than division. His statement underscores the need for maturity and foresight in Kenyan politics, particularly when it comes to national figures like Matiang’i, who have the potential to drive positive change.

“As a community, we must embrace those who have chosen to serve, not work to tear them down out of personal or political rivalry,” Gachagua concluded. "We should be building leaders, not undermining them."

May 12, 2025