This archive report was first published on 2 December 2019.
Former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has fired a warning shot at Interior CS Fred Matiang'i, reminding him of his humble beginnings. Speaking on Citizen TV's Daily Break Show, Khalwale said Matiang'i should remember that he was created by President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto.
Matang'i's comments at a fundraiser in Kirinyaga on Friday sparked the warning. In his speech, Matiang'i said he only takes instructions from President Uhuru Kenyatta, downplaying the powers of the DP. He also stated that a country is led like a family, and a family is only led by one man.
However, Khalwale has called on Matiang'i to remember where he has come from. He said, 'I think the CS Interior should also find time to count his blessings… Matiang'i should know that he was created by William Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta…'
Matiang'i rose to prominence when he was appointed ICT Minister in 2013. He later became the Education CS and cracked down on rampant exam cheating. In 2017, President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed him the Acting Interior CS, and he was confirmed as the permanent Interior CS in Uhuru's second term in office.
His appointment as Chief Minister in January this year gave him sweeping powers on the oversight of government projects, putting him at loggerheads with Ruto and his allies.
It is believed that both Uhuru and Raila could be pushing Matiang'i to run for the presidency in 2022.
