Prof. Sam Ongeri Retires from Elective Politics, Endorses Dr. Fred Matiang’i as Leaders Condemn Keumbu Violence
The Mt Kenya Times 
Dr Fred Mataing'i addressing residents at Keumbu has urged leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint, promote dialogue, and avoid inflammatory rhetoric that could fuel further tensions. Photo/Elizabeth Angira
By Elizabeth Angira
Prof. Sam Ongeri Retires from Elective Politics, Endorses Dr. Fred Matiang’i as Leaders Condemn Keumbu Violence
Former Cabinet Minister Prof. Sam Ongeri has officially announced his retirement from elective politics and endorsed former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, urging the Gusii community to rally behind him as a national leader.
Speaking in Keumbu, Kisii County, Prof. Ongeri said his political journey had come to an end and that it was time for a new generation of leadership.
“I have retired from seeking elective political positions. Today, I present Dr. Fred Matiang’i to you. Support him and give him the opportunity to serve this nation,” Prof. Ongeri said.
His endorsement came during a high-profile meeting attended by Jubilee Party leaders, where calls for peace and political tolerance dominated the proceedings following the recent violence in Keumbu that claimed one life and left several others injured.
Prof. Ongeri strongly condemned the clashes, describing them as unfortunate and unnecessary.
He urged political leaders and their supporters to reject violence and embrace peaceful coexistence, warning that political differences should never result in the loss of human life.
“There is no reason why Kenyans should lose their lives because of politics. Violence only divides our people and hinders development. Let us conduct our politics peacefully,” he said.
Dr. Matiang’i also denounced the violence, expressing sorrow over the death and calling on residents to reject political intolerance.
He urged leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint, promote dialogue, and avoid inflammatory rhetoric that could fuel further tensions.
Dr. Matiang’i emphasized that no political contest is worth the loss of human life and appealed to young people not to allow themselves to be manipulated into engaging in violence. Instead, he encouraged them to focus on education, entrepreneurship, and community development.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary further called on security agencies to conduct thorough investigations into the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. He said accountability is essential in restoring public confidence and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Dr. Matiang’i reiterated that Kenya’s democratic space should allow every leader to engage freely with citizens without fear or intimidation.
He stressed that leadership must be anchored on peace, respect for the rule of law, and service to the people, adding that violence has no place in a democratic society.
Leaders who maccaompanied Maiang’i were , Jubilee National Chair Vincent Kemosi ,Okong’o Omogeni(Nyamira Senator) , MP Anthony Kibagendi ( Kitutu Chache South) , Clive Gisairo( Kitutu Masaba North), Obadiah Barono( Bomachoge Borabu) , Former Kisii woman rep Janet Ong’era, City Lawyer Cliffe Ombeta, Gloriah Orwoba among other leaders. called for unity among the Gusii community.
The Keumbu meeting is widely viewed as part of growing political mobilisation by Jubilee leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election. Prof. Ongeri’s endorsement is expected to bolster Dr. Matiang’i’s support in the Gusii region, where the former Interior Cabinet Secretary continues to receive strong backing from local leaders and residents.
Leaders who addressed the meeting appealed to residents to maintain peace, respect differing political opinions, and participate in democratic processes without fear or intimidation.
They also emphasized that political competition should be based on ideas and policies rather than violence, insisting that no election or political ambition is worth the loss of a single life.
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