Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka disputed reports that Jubilee Party presidential hopeful Fred Matiangi has been abandoned by his people in his quest for the country’,s top job.
Onyonka said Matiangi still remains a formidable national figure with deep grassroots support across the country
“Let it be very clear: nobody has deserted him. This definitely a fake narrative,” Onyonka said.
Leadership, he added, is not about making noise every day.
“Some leaders work quietly, strategically, and effectively,” he added.
The Senator separately fought off claims that he has ditched Matiangi.
Onyonka had recently kept a low profile, fueling speculation about his political loyalties and future direction.
Whispers that gained traction on social media quickly morphed into claims that the outspoken senator had quietly distanced himself from Matiang’i.
He dismissed the reports, terming them misleading.
Instead, the Senator reaffirmed his unwavering support describing him as a critical asset to Kenya’s future.
“Dr Fred Matiang’i remains one of the most capable leaders this country has produced. He is disciplined, focused, and results-oriented — exactly the kind of leadership Kenya needs to transform its economy,” Onyonka said.
Onyonka and Matiang’i have in recent months been closely associated, with the Kisii Senator emerging as one of the most vocal defenders of the former powerful Cabinet minister, who is widely viewed as a key national political figure ahead of the next general election.
He said he has been on a sabbatical leave thus informing his absence from politics.
“Politics is not about making noise every day. Sometimes one has to step back, reflect, and enjoy communion with family. That should not be mistaken for abandoning the people or the ideals one believes in,” he told Kahawatungu during a phone interview.
He also called on the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to remain united and focused on its founding mission, warning that internal divisions could weaken the party’s influence.
“Unity within ODM is not optional — it is critical. The party remains a key vehicle for advancing democratic governance, social justice, and economic empowerment in this country,” he said.
Onyonka specifically urged the ODM leadership to safeguard cohesion within the party.
“I call upon Ida Odinga and the entire leadership to ensure unity prevails. We must not allow personal interests or internal disagreements to distract us from the mission we owe our supporters and the people of Kenya,” he added.
He noted that ODM’s history of resilience had been built on collective sacrifice and a shared vision for inclusive development.
“ODM has survived and remained relevant because of unity and clarity of purpose. That legacy must be protected if the party is to continue shaping Kenya’s political future,” Onyonka said.
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