Is former CJ Maraga eyeing eyeing 2027 presidency?
Retired Chief Justice David Kenani Maraga has largely maintained a low profile since his retirement in January 2021. However, his recent social media activity and public engagements have sparked speculation about possible political ambitions, with some Kenyans on social media calling on him to vie for the presidency in the upcoming elections.
Before last December, Maraga had only posted 13 times on X (formerly Twitter) since leaving office. These posts were primarily to debunk fake news and share condolence messages, including tributes to the late President Mwai Kibaki and the late General Francis Ogolla.
Yet, in just a few months—between December 2023 and now—the retired Chief Justice has posted nine times, nearly matching his total activity over the past four years. His re-emergence began with a New Year’s message that doubled as a scathing message to President William Ruto’s government over a rise in abductions, a post that has since garnered over 300,000 views.
A month later, on 31st January 2024, Maraga issued another hard-hitting statement condemning abductions and extrajudicial killings:
“We cannot remain silent. These crimes are a profound betrayal of the future of our nation and the sanctity of the Constitution. A leadership that abets a culture of killings and human rights violations jeopardizes its legitimacy.”
That post has since attracted over 390,000 views.
Public Presence
Beyond social media, Maraga has also become more visible offline. On 4th February, he met a group of young activists led by Nyamisa Chelagat, who briefed him on their movement’s fight for good governance, the rule of law, and constitutionalism. Acknowledging the meeting, he posted:
“I was inspired by your passion and commitment to transform Kenya into a better place for everyone. The youth struggle for a better Kenya deserves all our support.”
Then, on Sunday, Maraga—a devout Seventh-day Adventist—attended a Sunday service at ACK Holy Trinity Church in Kibra, Nairobi, a possible indication that he is actively courting a wider political audience.
“As part of my ongoing engagement with the youth, the young people invited me to the ACK Holy Trinity Church, in Kibra, Nairobi, for their ‘Youth Service’ today. The service was presided over by the Church Vicar, Barack Oduor, whose sermon was on Moses’ leadership of the Children of Israel out of Egypt. After the service, I had a chance to engage some of the youth and was impressed and encouraged by their enthusiasm and belief in the possibility of a new Kenya that will address their concerns.”
That last statement has fueled speculation that Maraga may be considering a political future.
A Return to the Spotlight?
Maraga made history by nullifying a presidential election and later ruled that Parliament should be dissolved for failing to meet the two-thirds gender rule. Now, some wonder if he is ready to take on another battle—this time, in the murky political arena rather than the courts.
However, political analysts remain skeptical about his chances. Analyst Javas Bigambo argues that those pushing for Maraga may be overestimating his appeal based on his past judicial rulings.
“If Maraga wants to run for presidency, is it just about integrity? In terms of mobilization, he scores poorly. Writing on Facebook or Twitter alone does not amount to political messaging that is inspiring. He needs to rethink, reorganize, re-strategize, and shed off the old skin of a laid-back jurist to become a serious dragon of a politician if he wants to be a compelling candidate,” Bigambo says.
His counterpart, Martin Andati, is even more dismissive of the idea, citing Maraga’s age and legacy.
“Maraga is an elder; he served as Chief Justice… When he retired, was he 70 or 72? He has built his career in the judiciary. I do not think he will want to soil his reputation by entering elective politics,” says Andati.
As speculation grows, the question remains: Will David Maraga address the rumours about a potential presidential bid? His predecessor, Willy Mutunga, has already ruled himself out of the race. Will Maraga follow suit, or will he carve out his own political path?
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