
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has officially severed all political ties with the Jubilee Party and has thrown his weight behind the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), signaling a powerful bid for the presidency in the 2027 General Elections.
In a calculated political maneuver, Matiang’i has begun rebranding UPA from the ground up, unveiling a newly revamped party headquarters—now dubbed the “Safisha Centre”—and launching a fresh identity campaign designed to align with his long-standing reputation as a reformist and disciplinarian.
The symbolic use of a bar of soap as the party’s new logo encapsulates UPA’s renewed mission: to “clean up” Kenya’s governance system, bureaucracy, and national leadership.Political observers say the move is not just cosmetic.

Inside sources confirm that UPA has intensified its grassroots mobilization, rolling out new youth and women’s leagues to expand its national reach and reframe its image as a modern, vibrant party ready to challenge the status quo. The youth wing, dubbed “Gen Z na Matiang’i,” has already gained traction among urban youth and university students.
Matiang’i’s political shift comes at a time of heightened activity ahead of the 2027 elections. With opposition stalwarts such as Kalonzo Musyoka, David Maraga, George Wajackoyah, and Rigathi Gachagua reportedly eyeing the presidency, Matiang’i’s entry reshuffles the political deck.
Analysts believe his no-nonsense record during his time in government—particularly in security, education, and civil service reform—will be a major asset on the campaign trail.Sources within UPA suggest that Matiang’i has rejected overtures to lead the Jubilee Party, citing irreconcilable differences and lack of political direction.
Instead, he has chosen a cleaner slate with UPA, aiming to build a movement that resonates with both disillusioned voters and first-time electorates.Meanwhile, political alliances are being tested. ODM’s leadership has hinted at the possibility of backing a non-party candidate in 2027—opening the door for an opposition coalition to coalesce around a strong, single contender.
Matiang’i’s name is now being floated as a top choice, especially as public appetite grows for leadership that promises order, integrity, and economic stability.Inside UPA, preparations are in high gear. The party has embarked on regional tours, recruitment drives, and policy reviews to fine-tune its manifesto ahead of a formal unveiling later this year.
A final announcement on UPA’s presidential candidate is expected before the end of December 2026.As Matiang’i repositions himself at the center of Kenya’s political stage, his move to rebrand and rebuild a party from scratch—rather than ride on old party structures—signals a new kind of political courage.
Whether he becomes the unifying face of the opposition or stands as a formidable challenger on his own, one thing is clear: the 2027 presidential race just got a lot more interesting.
Kenya now watches closely as the battle lines begin to take shape, and Fred Matiang’i emerges from the political shadows—ready to lead.