KISII, Kenya – Former Chief Justice David Maraga has announced his intention to run for the presidency in the 2027 general election, stating that he is ready to offer himself for the top job to initiate much-needed change in the country.
Speaking on Sunday in Kisii after a church service, Maraga emphasized that his candidacy would be subject to the will of the people, dismissing claims that he is anyone’s political project.
“At the end of the day, it is the people who will decide. Just relax, wait, and in due course, you will make up your mind yourself whether or not I’m a state project,” he said.
Maraga also weighed in on the ongoing process of selecting commissioners for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), expressing hope that the IEBC Selection Panel will appoint individuals with integrity who can deliver a free and fair election.
His announcement comes amid growing political maneuvering within the Kisii region.
A section of leaders, led by Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, has been advocating for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as the region’s preferred presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in 2027.
“We have decided that as a community, we are also going to set up our own political party. We are going to produce our own candidate who will negotiate with the President and all the other people who are running for political office in this country, and that candidate is none other than Fred Matiang’i,” Onyonka stated recently.
Maraga’s declaration follows recent endorsements by sections of the Gen Z demographic urging him to vie for the presidency.
Addressing students at a public lecture at Rongo University in Migori County on March 27, Maraga acknowledged these calls, stating that he was consulting widely before making a final decision.
“The request has been made; I’m discussing it with various stakeholders. I will make a final decision, and when the time comes, we will see whether or not we will do that,” he said.
Reflecting on his past leadership experience, Maraga noted that his tenure as Chief Justice had equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead the nation.
He reiterated his commitment to serving with integrity and addressing critical issues facing Kenyans, particularly corruption.
“The major problem in this country is corruption—budgeted and institutional corruption that has not been effectively addressed. As a result, the country is unable to mobilize enough resources to deal with the issues at hand,” Maraga said.
Maraga’s entry into the 2027 presidential race is likely to reshape political alignments, particularly in the Kisii region, where his potential candidacy could present an alternative to other high-profile contenders.
