Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has broken his silence on how he is financing his presidential campaign, insisting that his movement is funded by friends, supporters, and well-wishers rather than ill-gotten wealth.
Speaking during an interview on TV47, Matiang’i dismissed claims that he has smuggled gold or looted public resources to bankroll his political bid.
“I don’t have big money. I have not smuggled gold from anywhere, and I have not looted anything. I am just Fred working with people, and I’m happy,” he said.
The former CS explained that his campaign thrives on contributions from ordinary Kenyans, former classmates, and friends who chip in to keep the momentum alive. He revealed that even former President Uhuru Kenyatta may have offered support, but only as one among many contributors.
Matiang’i also admitted that unlike other contenders, he lacks massive financial muscle, but insisted that his strength lies in people’s trust and belief in his vision.
“It’s true, people say I don’t have money. I raise money from the people. I was in the US the other day raising money from Kenyans abroad,” he added.
On claims that his campaign is sponsored by Uhuru, Matiang’i was categorical, dismissing the narrative as “baseless and petty politics.”
“I am not Uhuru’s project. Why would I even be rattled by that? It’s something that cannot annoy me or even a cockroach,” he said, adding that serving in Uhuru’s Cabinet for 10 years was a matter of trust and professionalism, not evidence of political puppetry.
Matiang’i further pointed to his work beyond government, including a stint at the World Bank, as proof of his independent credentials.
“I have just come from the World Bank, am I the World Bank’s project? People need to respect common sense. We waste time on pettiness,” he said.
Positioning himself as a people-driven candidate, Matiang’i stressed that his campaign is about integrity, accountability, and trust—not deep pockets or political sponsorship.
