Kisii, Kenya — The Secretary of Political Governance in the Office of the President and a senior official within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Charles Chweya Matoke has established himself as a fast becoming a household name in Kisii politics.
As he spearheads the fast-rising #Tutam Movement across Kisii County, Matoke has also declared his intention to vie for the Nyaribari Masaba parliamentary seat in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
The convergence of his grassroots mobilization under #Tutam and his political aspirations signals a new wave of political energy and community-centered leadership in a region that has, at times, felt disconnected from the heart of national power.
#Tutam Movement: From Mobilization to Transformation
The #Tutam Movement—short for “Tutaendelea pamoja” (We shall move forward together)—is a civic-political initiative founded by Matoke and his allies to connect citizens with development opportunities through collaboration with the national government. The movement has gained traction particularly in Kisii and Nyamira counties, mobilizing youth, women, and professionals around themes of development, unity, accountability, and empowerment.
Under Matoke’s leadership, #Tutam has:
Held public engagements in Kisii towns, marketplaces, and ward-level barazas;
Promoted government initiatives, including the Affordable Housing Programme;
Linked local leaders to national development agencies to fast-track stalled or under-funded projects;
Provided a platform for the youth to express concerns about unemployment, education access, and inclusion in decision-making.
The movement, while grassroots in nature, enjoys proximity to national power through Matoke’s political and administrative role in President William Ruto’s administration.
Gratitude to President Ruto and Chief Whip Osoro
Matoke has repeatedly expressed deep appreciation to President Ruto for his commitment to infrastructure, affordable housing, and resource allocation to Kisii. The President recently launched housing units in Nyaribari Masaba, a flagship project that #Tutam has proudly backed and promoted.
> “We are grateful to President Ruto for bringing tangible development to our people. The affordable housing project is not just a roof over people’s heads—it is dignity, jobs, and growth for Kisii,” Matoke said during a recent #Tutam tour in Masimba.
He also extended heartfelt thanks to National Assembly Chief Whip Hon. Silvanus Osoro for consistently supporting Gusii region interests in Parliament.
> “Hon. Osoro is proof that when young leaders rise with integrity and focus, development follows. His commitment to our people is unwavering,” Matoke added.
The 2027 Dream: Nyaribari Masaba Parliamentary Race
Matoke’s bold declaration to contest the Nyaribari Masaba MP seat in 2027 has shifted the political conversation in the constituency. Currently held by Hon. Dr. Daniel Manduku (ODM), the seat is increasingly viewed as vulnerable, with rising discontent over unmet campaign promises, poor infrastructure, and lack of direct connection to government development networks.
By aligning his candidacy with the development agenda of the national government, Matoke is offering voters a “development-first alternative.” Through #Tutam, he is testing ideas, building networks, and gaining visibility on the ground.
Why Matoke’s Candidacy Is Gaining Momentum:
Pro-Government Positioning: Voters are increasingly leaning toward candidates who can bring government-funded projects. Matoke, as a government insider, is promising exactly that.
Grassroots Mobilization: His door-to-door and market-based engagements under the #Tutam Movement are creating organic support from boda boda riders, traders, youth groups, and farmers.
Diaspora Linkages: Having lived and studied abroad, Matoke is uniquely positioned to leverage international partnerships for local development.
Accountability Agenda: Unlike traditional politicians, Matoke has emphasized transparent leadership, inclusive decision-making, and performance tracking.
UDA Nomination Politics: Matoke may have to battle it out in party primaries, depending on the level of interest from other party loyalists.
Still, political analysts argue that if he continues to deliver practical development gains through #Tutam and leverages the UDA party infrastructure, Matoke will be among the top contender
In interviews with locals in Masimba and Gesusu wards, some expressed optimism about Matoke’s approach:
> “This is the first time we are seeing a leader come before elections with real action. If he continues like this, he has our vote,” said Kemunto Nyaboke, a youth leader in Nyamasibi.
Others, however, remain cautious:
“We’ve seen politicians come and go. Let him finish the housing project and help with roads before asking for our votes,” said Mzee Onyancha, a retired teacher in Ichuni.
Charles Matoke’s entry into the race for Nyaribari Masaba MP is more than just another political bid—it represents a shift in how campaigns are run: issue-based, community-focused, and rooted in delivery rather than promises.
Through #Tutam, he is laying the groundwork for a constituency-wide awakening, one that prioritizes housing, youth empowerment, infrastructure, education, and economic transformation.