Mammoth crowd forces Matiang'i to move rally to Gusii stadium

Supporters had virtually filled Capital-Hospital Road and the surrounding streets, bringing business in the busy town to a standstill as Matiang’i’s convoy snaked through.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati, who hosted Matiang’i, announced shortly after speeches began at the roundabout that the rally would be moved to Gusii Stadium.

“Because of the huge numbers, we have agreed to move to the stadium, and I appeal to everyone not to enter the playing field,” Arati urged.

“I am happy with the massive turnout to welcome our king, and due to limited space here, let’s all proceed to the stadium.”

Earlier, Matiang’i paid a courtesy call on Arati at his office in Kisii Town before they addressed a public rally at the Capital Roundabout, marking Matiang’i’s triumphant homecoming.

The closed-door meeting, which included other elected leaders, lasted about 30 minutes before Matiang’i and Arati emerged and rode together through the streets of Kisii.

Arati, one of ODM’s highest-ranking officials and the party’s deputy leader, has remained loyal to Raila Odinga for decades, dating back to his days as an MCA and later as MP for Dagoretti North in Nairobi.

While addressing Gusii residents at several stopovers, Matiang’i told his native region that he would reveal their political direction at the appropriate time.

Speaking during a series of mini-rallies in major towns along the Kisii-Sotik Road, Matiang’i said he was first listening to the people before making any final decisions.

He acknowledged that he had accepted the people’s go-ahead to engage with leaders nationwide, promising that his 2027 plans would soon be unveiled.

“I thank you for giving me the green light to sit down and engage with other leaders. When the right time comes, I will come back here and tell you what’s next,” Matiang’i told ecstatic crowds at Nyansiongo Market.

Thousands of supporters turned out to welcome him during his first tour of the entire Gusii region since his return from the United States, amid growing speculation about a 2027 presidential bid.

“The time will come, and I will sit down with you so that we can agree, as a people, on the way forward,” he told cheering supporters.

Matiang’i is widely expected to run for the presidency in 2027, especially after recent talks with key opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.