Ndegwa Njiru Claims Matiang’i’s Return to Politics Aims to Divide the Opposition

Nairobi, Kenya — September 26, 2025 (EAT).

Lawyer and political commentator Ndegwa Njiru has accused former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i of being deployed as part of a deliberate strategy to fracture opposition unity ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Latest

Speaking on a national talk show, Njiru asserted that Matiang’i’s re-emergence in active politics is not organic but engineered. He claimed that certain ruling-party networks are using Matiang’i to siphon votes and create rifts within opposition coalitions.

He emphasized: “It’s a project to divide, distract and ultimately weaken the opposition… don’t be fooled by theatrics.”

Context & Political Landscape

• Matiang’i, a former powerful CS, has been rumored to re-engage in national politics after a period of relative quiet.

• His name features in a number of speculative conversations about new party formations or leadership roles.

• Opposition parties are already navigating internal struggles over candidate selection, coalition alignment, and power sharing.

Why Njiru’s Claim Matters

• If Mātiang’i is seen as a spoiler, it complicates efforts at opposition unity, which many view as essential to mount a credible challenge to the ruling coalition.

• The narrative of “divide and conquer” may fuel suspicion among opposition ranks and discourage cooperation.

• It places political pressure on both Matiang’i and opposition leaders to clarify alliances, intentions, and loyalties.

Reactions & Counterpoints

• Supporters of Matiang’i see him as a fresh force who can attract moderates and defectors from both sides.

• Opposition leaders have not issued a unified response, with some calling the accusation speculative and premature.

• Some analysts say the timing of these public statements suggests a wider political chess game is underway heading into 2027.

What We Don’t Know

• Matiang’i’s own strategy and whether he intends to form or join a party.

• Whether Njiru’s accusation reflects inside knowledge or political positioning.

• How opposition leaders will respond or defend against such narratives.