Matiang’i Endorsed In Ekerenyo As Opposition Consolidates Gusii Base
Politics Updated: 23 February 2026 20:16 EAT
United Opposition leaders, Rigathi Gachagua, Dr Fred Matiang'i, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Cleo Malalah, Peter munya, among others stormed Kisii county to rally residents behind Fred Matiang'i
Former Deputy President who is then Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua on Monday led a high–profile opposition tour of Kisii County, marking one of the most significant political engagements in the Gusii region in recent months. The visit brought together key figures aligned to the emerging United Opposition formation, with the leaders addressing large roadside gatherings and organized public forums across several constituencies.
The tour began in Ekerenyo, Nyamira County, where residents publicly endorsed former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i as a central figure in the opposition’s push for what they termed “national liberation and renewal.” Speakers described the endorsement as symbolic of Western Kenya’s growing political realignment.
Gachagua told residents that a united front would be key in challenging the current administration, emphasizing that “a people united on a common purpose can never be defeated.” He framed the tour as part of a broader grassroots listening mission aimed at consolidating support ahead of future national political contests.
In Keroka town, within Kitutu Masaba, the leaders addressed enthusiastic crowds who lined the streets chanting pro-opposition slogans. Gachagua said Keroka symbolized resilience and political awareness, urging locals to remain steadfast in their demand for accountable governance and restoration of the rule of law.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka echoed the unity message, stating that the opposition coalition was built on constitutionalism and social justice. He criticized what he described as economic hardships facing ordinary Kenyans and pledged that a new administration would prioritize lowering the cost of living and strengthening devolution.
DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa focused his remarks on governance and institutional reforms. He argued that democratic space must be protected and warned against what he termed creeping authoritarian tendencies. Wamalwa said the Gusii region would play a decisive role in shaping the country’s political future.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya addressed youth unemployment and called for equitable resource distribution. He said the tour was not merely political mobilization but a platform to collect citizens’ grievances, especially concerning agriculture, small businesses, and access to markets.
Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya highlighted the need to protect farmers from exploitative market systems. He stated that food security and fair farm-gate prices would be central pillars of the opposition’s economic blueprint if entrusted with leadership.
DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala rallied supporters by declaring that the movement represented a “rebirth of constitutional order.” He criticized what he termed disregard for democratic norms and urged residents to register as voters and actively participate in civic processes.
In Keumbu, located in Nyaribari Chache, the delegation emphasized respect for human dignity and rule of law. Several speakers accused the current regime of undermining constitutional safeguards, asserting that legitimacy flows from adherence to democratic principles and protection of civil liberties.
The leaders consistently framed the aim of the tour as strengthening the United Opposition’s grassroots networks across Gusii land. They described the engagements as consultative rather than ceremonial, insisting that local voices would shape their policy agenda on education, healthcare, and economic justice.
Education featured prominently in the messaging. Matiang’i pledged commitment to universal, free, and compulsory basic education, arguing that access to schooling must not depend on family income. On healthcare, the leaders said medical services should not remain a privilege for the wealthy but a guaranteed right for all Kenyans.
Throughout the day, social media posts from the leaders showcased images of packed town centers and roadside rallies in Ekerenyo, Keroka, and Keumbu, describing the reception as evidence that the Gusii region is politically alert and ready for change. Supporters waved placards and chanted slogans calling for national renewal.
By the end of the tour, Gachagua reiterated that the opposition would “get the nation back to the rule of law,” promising a return visit to continue engagements. The Kisii tour, according to the leaders, marked a strategic step in consolidating Western Kenya as a cornerstone of the broader opposition coalition ahead of the next electoral cycle.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD