Fred Matiang’i, Kenya’s former Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government, is reportedly seeking financial and political assistance in his bid for the Kenyan presidency. According to recently filed documents, Matiang’i has retained the services of Dickens & Madson Canada Inc., a lobbying firm, to garner support from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan for his political aspirations.
- The agreement between Matiang’i and Dickens & Madson Canada Inc. outlines a multifaceted approach to promoting his candidacy on the international stage.
- This includes lobbying efforts directed at the executive and legislative branches of the aforementioned governments.
- Additionally, the firm plans to bolster Matiang’i’s global image through public relations and media assistance.
Matiang’i’s political career has been marked by both achievements and controversies. His tenure as Cabinet Secretary for Education saw significant reforms in the national examination system, aimed at curbing cheating and streamlining result processing. However, these reforms also led to friction with teachers’ unions, who questioned the fairness of the new examination procedures.
- Following the death of Joseph Ole Nkaissery in 2017, Matiang’i was appointed as acting Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government.
- He quickly gained a reputation as a decisive leader, particularly during the 2017 presidential election.
- However, his tough stance against opposition protests, including the shutdown of media houses during Raila Odinga’s symbolic swearing-in as the “People’s President,” drew criticism from human rights groups.
Matiang’i’s potential candidacy is further complicated by allegations of his involvement in the Ruaraka school land saga. This controversy, dating back to his time as Education Secretary, involves the alleged misappropriation of Sh1.5 billion in public funds meant for the acquisition of land for two public schools. While Matiang’i has maintained his innocence and denied any wrongdoing, the issue continues to cast a shadow over his political future.