Old Clip of Ruto Defending Matiang’i Sparks Fresh Political Storm Ahead of 2027

An old video of President William Ruto defending Fred Matiang’i has resurfaced online, stirring political debate as the former Interior CS eyes a comeback to challenge Ruto in the next presidential election.

In the footage, a younger Ruto—then Deputy President—boldly urges the opposition to let Matiang’i do his job without political interference. Dressed in a red Jubilee Party shirt, Ruto praises the CS’s firm leadership at the time, even as Matiang’i enforced tough and controversial policies that earned him public backlash.

The clip, which was shared by blogger Wahome Thuku on Facebook, comes just as Matiang’i’s name returns to national headlines with reports that he is assembling a campaign team ahead of 2027. Its timing has ignited reactions from Kenyans, with many using the phrase “Wachana na Matiang’i” to ironically criticise Ruto’s current posture toward the former minister.

“This is the same Ruto who now sees Matiang’i as a threat. How things change,” one commenter posted. Another wrote, “Back then, he was shielding Matiang’i. Now he’s clearing the path for 2027.”

The video is believed to have been taken between 2017 and 2018 during heightened political tensions under the Jubilee government. While State House has remained silent, opposition leaders are reportedly watching closely, framing the moment as proof of political double-speak.

Ruto’s critics argue that the clip underscores the blurred lines between governance and campaign strategy, particularly as the race to 2027 unofficially begins. With Matiang’i’s political signals becoming stronger, observers believe the resurfaced video could offer his supporters symbolic ammunition.

For now, neither Ruto nor Matiang’i has addressed the clip directly. But the growing online buzz suggests the past may once again shape the future of Kenya’s political battlefield.