Former Chief Justice David Maraga has finally spoken out against speculation that his 2027 presidential bid is state-sponsored. Addressing the matter on Sunday, March 30, Maraga made it clear that he is his own man and is still consulting widely before making his final decision on the race to State House.
The retired CJ, known for his unwavering stance on justice and integrity, insisted that if he runs, it will be purely based on his belief that he is the best candidate for Kenya.
Maraga's potential entry into the 2027 race has stirred debates, particularly in the Gusii region, where former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i is also eyeing the top seat. Some political figures speculate that Maraga's candidacy might be a strategic move to divide the Gusii vote, thereby weakening Matiang’i’s chances.
However, Maraga dismissed such claims with a calm but firm response:
His remarks suggest that he is focused on winning the people’s trust rather than entertaining political narratives that seek to discredit his intentions.
Beyond addressing his presidential ambitions, Maraga also weighed in on the crucial issue of electoral integrity. He called upon the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure that only individuals of high integrity are selected to oversee the 2027 elections.
With Kenya’s electoral history marred by disputes and controversies, Maraga's words serve as a reminder of the importance of fairness in the democratic process
While he has yet to make an official declaration, Maraga’s statements indicate that he is seriously considering a presidential run. His experience in the judiciary, particularly his landmark ruling that nullified the 2017 presidential election, has earned him a reputation as a man who upholds the rule of law. Whether that will translate into political success remains to be seen.
As Kenya inches closer to the 2027 elections, one thing is certain,Maraga’s name will continue to spark discussions. Is he the leader Kenya needs, or is he a spoiler in the Gusii political landscape? Time will tell.