Matiang'i urges dialogue and unity amid economic crisis and political tensions

Former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i joins other leaders in a church service in Thika on June 29, 2025. [Gitau Wanyoike, Standard]

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has called for national unity and dialogue in response to the growing economic hardships and political unrest being experienced across the country.

Speaking in Thika, Matiang’i decried the rising cost of living, the destruction of property during protests, and attempts by political leaders to divide Kenyans along tribal and partisan lines.

“Kenyans are currently struggling with the high cost of living and need to be rescued. We are calling on the government to embrace dialogue so that we can all address the challenges facing this country,” Matiang’i said.

He backed calls by the clergy for a national conversation and warned that the ongoing hardships were being exploited by some politicians to incite division and chaos.

“When we have such challenges in the country, it becomes a breeding ground for political blame games and tribal divisions. Let’s not accept such tactics. It's time for all of us to embrace dialogue,” he warned.

Matiang’i, who hinted at readiness to offer alternative leadership, said the opposition must unite to help restore economic stability.

“The government is unable to deliver services to its people, and I am ready as an alternative government,” he said. “We want unity in the opposition so that we can restore this country’s economy.”

He condemned the violence and destruction of property witnessed during recent protests, attributing some of it to paid goons used to destabilize communities.

“Let’s not allow political leaders to incite us to destroy the hard-earned property of our fellow citizens. When we destroy our properties, are we developing or going backward?” he urged.

Matiang’i said the government should stop shifting blame and instead focus on genuine engagement with citizens.