Interior CS Fred Matiang’i has rubbished resignation calls from pro-deputy President William Ruto’s allies.
A section of leaders loyal to the DP namely; Alice Wahome (Kandara), Irungu Kang’ata (Murang’a), Rigathi Gachagua (Mathira) and Ndindi Nyoro (Kiharu), demanded that CSs Matiang’i, Joe Mucheru (ICT) and Mutahi Kagwe (Health) exit their offices over their allegiance to ODM leader Raila Odinga.
The leaders claimed the ministers who have apparently been pushing for a Raila presidency will interfere with operations at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as the 2022 duel draws closer.
“They are not qualified to be part of the institutions working with the IEBC on the preparation for next year’s elections,” said Kang’ata.
His Mathira counterpart said, “Matiang’i is partisan and any election management he is part of cannot be free and fair.”
Not one to back down from a fight, the bullish Interior CS said he is accountable to the people of Kenya and will not be intimidated into leaving office.
“Don’t be intimidated by threats. You are only answerable and accountable to the people of Kenya, and your job is to uphold the zero tolerance policy on those who encourage political intolerance,” Matiang’i said.
In his defense, Matiang’i added that his work is to ensure a conducive environment for the upcoming general elections.
“We, in the security sector, do not conduct elections – that is the mandate of the IEBC,” Matiang’i added.
On Saturday, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) through Secretary-General Veronica Maina wrote to the IEBC protesting against the inclusion of CSs Matiang’i and Mucheru into a multi-agency team planning for a free, fair and transparent General Election.
“Elections are a democratic process that has nothing to do with government functionaries. Article 81 of the Constitution is clear that free, fair and credible elections are administered in an impartial manner and free from intimidation and improper influence,” said Maina.
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