Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has revealed that his presidential campaign will rely heavily on contributions from supporters and a strong network of volunteers, rather than personal wealth. Speaking in an interview with Citizen TV, Matiang’i said ordinary Kenyans who believe in his leadership and vision for the country will play a central role in sustaining his campaign ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Matiang’i, who is running on a Jubilee Party ticket after being formally endorsed as the party’s flagbearer on October 30, acknowledged that he does not have the vast financial resources typically associated with presidential candidates in Kenya. “I am not a famous businessman; I have not smuggled gold or run insurance schemes. I am just Fred Matiang’i,” he stated, highlighting his openness about his financial position.
The former CS explained that contributions from teachers, professionals, volunteers, and ordinary supporters will form the backbone of his campaign machinery. “I am benefiting from small people, fellow teachers, volunteers who are making contributions,” he said, noting that about two-thirds of his campaign team consists of unpaid volunteers.
Volunteerism, Matiang’i emphasized, will significantly reduce the high costs associated with nationwide campaigns, which typically involve multi-billion-shilling expenditures for rallies, media advertising, logistics, security, branding, and voter mobilisation. He also highlighted the willingness of many Kenyans to contribute their time and resources, including fuel and personal effort, without expecting financial reward.
“There is a group of Kenyans who want good for their country, and they are willing to say, ‘Okay, I will fuel my car and come to work for you two days a week.’ That is how I intend to go about it,” Matiang’i said, expressing confidence that the number of volunteers supporting his campaign will continue to grow as the election approaches.
His approach comes amid rising campaign costs in Kenya, where transporting candidates and supporters across all 47 counties, hiring vehicles, buses, and helicopters, and purchasing media airtime represent significant financial demands. By relying on grassroots contributions and volunteer support, Matiang’i aims to build a sustainable campaign infrastructure while engaging citizens directly in the electoral process.
