Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i was compelled to end his rally prematurely in Bomet Town on Friday after supporters of President William Ruto interrupted his campaign event with persistent pro-Ruto chants.
Matiang’i, who was on a political tour of the South Rift region aimed at expanding his influence ahead of the 2027 General Election, faced a hostile crowd in Bomet. The residents repeatedly shouted slogans backing President Ruto’s bid for a second term, including the chant, “Two term, two term.”
The disruption created a tense atmosphere, forcing Matiang’i and his team to abandon their planned engagement and cancel a subsequent stop in Mulot. Despite the interruption, the rally did not escalate into violence.
This incident underscores the challenges opposition figures like Matiang’i face in parts of the Rift Valley, where President Ruto retains strong grassroots support. Matiang’i, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary under President Uhuru Kenyatta, has been intensifying his political activities to build a broader national profile and strengthen Jubilee’s grassroots presence.
Following the disruption in Bomet, Matiang’i continued his tour in Narok as Jubilee seeks to position itself strategically ahead of the upcoming elections. The South Rift remains a key battleground as political parties ramp up mobilisation efforts in anticipation of the 2027 polls.
