NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Chief Justice David Maraga has issued a searing rebuke of President William Ruto’s administration, warning that Kenya is spiraling into crisis under current leadership and declaring his intention to run for president in 2027.
In an interview on Citizen TV on Tuesday night, Maraga blamed widespread public discontent, especially among young people, on what he termed as a leadership vacuum at the top.
“As Kenyans, unless we take action, our country is going to the dogs. And that is why I am running for office,” said Maraga. “Why are young people going to the streets? Because nobody cares about their interests.”
The former Chief Justice, known for his unwavering stance on constitutionalism and judicial independence, accused the Ruto government of presiding over a culture of impunity and indifference.
He claimed that the administration’s response to national crises has been reduced to empty statements rather than meaningful action.
“Leadership must start from the top. If I were still serving, heads would roll. You cannot have people dying in the streets and expect to stay silent,” Maraga charged.
Without directly naming individuals, he denounced what he described as the “timidity” of state institutions and a governance culture that shields the powerful while failing the ordinary citizen.
He further likened Kenya’s governance structure to a “fortress of silence,” where genuine public grievances are ignored, and those implicated in wrongdoing are either protected or rewarded through promotions and reshuffles.
“This system is not built to serve Kenyans — it is built to protect the powerful. That must change,” he said.
Maraga said his decision to seek the presidency followed deep reflection, consultations with his family, close allies, and prayer.
His entry into the 2027 race would mark a rare transition from the judiciary to frontline politics and is likely to shake up an already crowded opposition landscape.
With Gen Z-led protests exposing growing frustrations over unemployment, corruption, and state brutality, Maraga’s message appeared to resonate with those disillusioned by the political status quo.
Whether he can convert his legacy of judicial integrity into a viable political movement remains to be seen.
