Former Chief Justice David Maraga has strongly condemned the Kenya Kwanza government, claiming it has overseen economic deterioration and pervasive corruption. Maraga stated he will compete in the 2027 presidential race to address the country’s worsening conditions.
As the Green Movement (UGM) Party’s presidential nominee, Maraga addressed mourners at Riangabi Primary School Grounds in Kisii County during the funeral of Mama Rose Nyabate Ontomwa on Friday. The deceased was the mother of KTN journalist Francis Ontomwa.
Maraga seized the occasion to criticize the administration, asserting that corruption had become deeply rooted in the highest echelons of leadership. ‘The current economic crisis stems from governmental shortcomings and self-enrichment by those in authority,’ Maraga stated.
The former head of the Supreme Court, who held office from October 2016 to January 2021, specifically pointed to irregularities in the oil sector, alleging that government officials had gained from oil supply deals that circumvented established state entities like the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC). He maintained that these practices had led to increased fuel costs, further straining ordinary Kenyans.
These assertions, however, lacked independent verification. Maraga also raised concerns about the implementation of the e-Citizen platform and its connection with the Social Health Authority (SHA), criticizing what he termed excessive dependence on foreign technology rather than domestic skills. Recalling his time in the Judiciary, he highlighted that the e-filing system implemented during his administration was developed domestically and enhanced court efficiency.
Recognized for his rigorous constitutional interpretation, Maraga also expressed dismay at what he described as an expanding culture of bribery and corruption in public affairs, particularly during significant political gatherings. ‘Should I be entrusted with the presidency, I will confront corruption firmly from the outset. No individual will be exempt, including myself,’ he declared, encouraging citizens to engage actively in the upcoming 2027 electoral process.
Maraga’s judicial heritage encompasses his pivotal 2017 Supreme Court ruling that invalidated a presidential election and his recommendation regarding parliamentary dissolution due to gender regulation noncompliancedecisions that established his image as a steadfast guardian of constitutional principles. His transition from judicial service to active politics represents a notable move from the bench to the political sphere, with a platform focused on anti-corruption measures and governance enhancement.