Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi has unveiled a campaign strategy that places ordinary Kenyans at the heart of his presidential bid.
Speaking to Citizen TV, Matiangi highlighted that his campaign is being driven by volunteers and modest contributions rather than high-profile donors or corporate support.
“I am benefiting from small people, fellow teachers, volunteers who are making contributions,” Matiangi said, emphasizing the grassroots nature of his campaign.
He added that most of his team consists of unpaid volunteers who dedicate their time to mobilizing communities and supporting campaign activities.
Matiangi’s approach contrasts with the typical structure of Kenyan presidential campaigns, which often rely heavily on affluent supporters and business networks.
By involving teachers, professionals, and local volunteers, the former CS aims to cultivate a participatory model that mirrors Kenya’s longstanding culture of community engagement, such as through chamas and local development initiatives.
The presidential hopeful also distanced himself from claims of business wealth or elite backing.
“I am just Fred Matiang’i,” he said, noting that he has not engaged in gold trading, insurance brokerage, or other high-profile business ventures. The statement underlines his effort to position himself as a relatable candidate whose appeal is rooted in service rather than wealth.
Approximately two-thirds of Matiangi’s campaign staff are volunteers, many of whom provide logistical support, attend community meetings, and fuel their own vehicles to aid campaign operations.
The model relies on the dedication of citizens willing to contribute their time and resources to advance what Matiangi describes as a shared responsibility toward the nation’s political future.
Matiangi’s strategy signals a shift in campaign dynamics ahead of the next general election, presenting an alternative for voters skeptical of politics dominated by wealth and influence.
His focus on grassroots participation underscores the potential of citizen-driven campaigns to reshape how presidential bids are organized and sustained in Kenya.