Omari urges Matiang’i to drop presidential bid, back Ruto

Danstan Omari, a Nairobi lawyer, has advised former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i to abandon his presidential ambitions and instead back President William Ruto's bid for re-election. Omari contends that the incumbent lacks the political influence and voter support necessary to claim the presidency. He explained that former President Uhuru Kenyatta, once a key political backer for Matiang'i, has now aligned himself with Edwin Sifuna, the senator representing the Linda Mwananchi movement.

Omari acknowledged that Matiang'i no longer possesses the national political clout he once enjoyed. "Mtiang'i's political influence is no longer nationwide," Omari stated. He challenged Matiang'i and other presidential candidates from the Gusii community to provide examples of successful rallies outside Kisii that attracted over 500 attendees.

Omari emphasized that presidential politics requires national mobilization and the formation of alliances beyond one's ethnic or regional base. He asserted that Matiang'i's political prospects are limited without a broader national coalition. "Matiang'i cannot win without a national coalition," Omari concluded. Omari also questioned the presidential viability of retired Chief Justice David Maraga, asserting that the Gusii community must recognize the significance of its limited numerical strength in national elections.

He maintained that the Gusii community cannot secure the presidency by remaining politically isolated. "You can't win the presidency by only campaigning in Kisii," Omari stated. Omari explained that his shift in support for Matiang'i to Ruto originated from a personal relationship with the President, whom he referred to as a client.

He defended representing Matiang'i in the past, stating that he no longer feels obligated to support him. Omari urged Matiang'i and Maraga to unite with MP Steve Mogaka and support Ruto, stating that this collaboration would grant the Gusii community a stake in government.