"I'm Not Accountable to You!" Former CS Fred Matiang’i Fires Back at Wealth Scrutiny

 Speaking at a recent public event, Matiang’i made it clear that since he is no longer in public office, he is not accountable to any oversight commission regarding asset declaration.

“No, I don’t know how much I’m worth,” he said. “Even if I did, it’s not for public consumption because I am not a public official, and you are not a commission to which I’m required to declare.”

His pointed remarks appeared to respond to continued speculation about the wealth of former government officials and served to reassert his belief in legal due process and personal integrity.

“Since I was born, I’ve never been above the law,” he added, drawing applause from the crowd. “Even when I was a minister, I wasn’t above the law.”The comments were seen by some as a subtle jab at current and former leaders who have faced public criticism over corruption and impunity.

Matiang’i’s message seemed to reaffirm his image as a no-nonsense, rule-abiding public servant—one who insists that leadership must be grounded in accountability.

Although the former CS has kept a low profile since the end of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure, public interest in his legacy, work ethic, and personal life has remained high.

As someone who held key positions in education, ICT, and the powerful Interior Ministry, his record continues to draw scrutiny.

While his firm response may not satisfy those demanding transparency from former state officials, it reinforces a consistent public image: that of a disciplined leader who claims to have never used his influence to evade scrutiny or legal responsibility.

His remarks also come at a time when scrutiny of wealth amassed by public servants continues to dominate national debate, especially amid economic hardship for many Kenyans.

By distancing himself from such discussions, Matiang’i appears keen to draw a clear boundary between his current private life and his previous public service.