Kitutu Chache South MP Antony Kibagendi has set political tongues wagging after floating the possibility of a 2027 presidential ticket pairing former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i with fiery Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
In a Facebook post that has since drawn dozens of reactions, Kibagendi posted photos of Matiang’i and Nyoro side by side, accompanied by a provocative caption: “What about this ticket? Dr. Fred Okengo Matiang’i and his running mate Ndindi Nyoro? Tumalize story mapema……”
The remark has sparked excitement and curiosity across the political spectrum, coming at a time when speculation over President William Ruto’s possible challengers in 2027 is beginning to gain momentum.
Matiang’i, a seasoned technocrat once seen as one of the most powerful cabinet secretaries during Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, has kept a low political profile since leaving office. Pairing him with Nyoro — a staunch Ruto ally and vocal defender of the Kenya Kwanza government — makes the idea even more intriguing.
Reactions from Kibagendi’s followers were swift and sharp. Shaban Robert quipped: “If there will be more than two candidates competing against Ruto 😂 Ruto will sweep them before 7am.” His comment underscored the perception that multiple opposition candidates could split the vote, paving an easy path for Ruto’s re-election.
Others, however, welcomed the idea with enthusiasm. Antony Mogire wrote: “That’s great to have Natembeya, Sifuna, Senator wa Meru, Careb, Babu and you in one basket. Make that count plz Anthony.” The response hinted at the possibility of a broader coalition bringing together heavyweights such as Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and youthful leaders like Babu Owino.
Matiang’i, retains a strong support base in Kisii and is seen as a symbol of technocratic efficiency. Nyoro, on the other hand, represents the youthful, populist, and aggressive brand of politics that has catapulted him to national prominence.
Whether such a ticket could materialize remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Kibagendi’s suggestion has reignited debate about the shape of Kenya’s next political contest and the possible alliances that could redefine the race. For now, the Matiang’i–Ndindi Nyoro pairing is a tantalizing “what if” — but one that has already captured the imagination of Kenyans online.