Nairobi, Kenya — Digital communication strategist Pauline Njoroge has publicly defended her decision to work with the opposition and declared her support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Her statement comes after a photo of her alongside former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua surfaced online, sparking criticism and accusations of betrayal and tribalism from some social media users.
In a candid response issued on Monday, Njoroge confirmed her political realignment, insisting that her support for the opposition and Matiang’i is rooted in her belief in better leadership for Kenya.
“I have noticed that some people are seething with anger over my yesterday’s photo with Rigathi Gachagua. A few have even gone as far as branding me tribal or calling me a traitor,” Njoroge stated.
She clarified that her support for Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential race was genuine, driven by her belief in his vision for Kenya and the African Union Commission (AUC).
“My love and support for Baba in 2022 and for his AUC campaign was sincere, and it remains so. But that love and support is not transferable,” she explained.
Njoroge revealed that while she briefly engaged with the current administration through an individual she respects, governance failures compelled her to step away.
Njoroge declared her unwavering support for Dr. Fred Matiang’i, describing him as a leader capable of delivering progressive and effective governance.
“I am now supporting Dr. Fred Matiang’i for the presidency in 2027. I deeply believe and know that he is capable of delivering far more effective and progressive leadership than what we currently have,” she said.
She added that her political journey will involve engaging with other opposition leaders, including Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Governor Natembeya, and Martha Karua, among others.
In her parting shot to critics accusing her of tribalism, Njoroge stated:
“If you are a Kalenjin who supports Ruto and want to call me tribal for backing Matiang’i, suit yourself. And if you are a Luo supporting Ruto simply because Baba is engaging with him, and yet you want to label me tribal for standing with Matiang’i, suit yourself too.”
Njoroge concluded by affirming her right to follow her convictions in Kenya’s democratic space, saying: “I will always follow my heart and stand by what I believe is right, unapologetically!”
By Were Kelly
