NAIROBI, Kenya – David Maraga’s recent meeting with civil society leaders and young protesters has sparked speculation about his political future—particularly whether he might challenge President William Ruto in the next election.
But is Kenya’s former top judge stepping into the political ring, or is this just another case of the internet reading too much into things? Let’s break it down.
A Meeting That Set Social Media on Fire
On February 4, 2025, Maraga welcomed a delegation of Gen Z activists and civil society leaders to his residence.
While the former CJ hasn’t declared any political ambitions, the symbolism of the gathering wasn’t lost on Kenyans.
Shortly after, Maraga took to social media to share his thoughts: “Thank you @Nyamisa_Chela and your team for the courtesy call. I was inspired by your passion and commitment to transform Kenya into a better place for everyone.”
Thank you @Nyamisa_Chela and your team for the courtesy call. 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.
His words resonated with pro-reform activists who have been vocal about governance, accountability, and constitutionalism.
And just like that, Twitter (or X) exploded with debates over whether Maraga was positioning himself as a pro-reform alternative in Kenya’s political landscape.
If the meeting itself wasn’t enough to stir speculation, what happened afterward certainly was.
Videos and photos surfaced showing Maraga singing along with Gen Z activists, joining in a patriotic song that has become an anthem for protesters killed in the June 2024 anti-government demonstrations.
The moment was powerful. A respected former Chief Justice, standing shoulder to shoulder with a generation demanding change? That’s the kind of imagery that fuels a movement.
We paid a courtesy call on @dkmaraga. We updated him on the movement’s struggle for good governance, the rule of law and constitutionalism, issues he relates with very well. We inducted him to the movement, he sang with us, as we welcomed him to the struggle to liberate Kenya.
Rights activist Nyamisa Chelagat, who attended the meeting, described it as a pivotal moment in the fight for better governance.
“He understands our struggle for justice and constitutionalism,” she said.
Maraga’s Stand on Justice and Human Rights
Beyond the political buzz, one thing is clear—Maraga remains deeply concerned about justice and human rights violations in Kenya.
He recently condemned the growing cases of enforced disappearances, calling them a threat to democracy.
He specifically mourned the deaths of Martin Mwau and Justus Mutumwa, two activists killed during last year’s protests, and called for justice for their families.
In a bold statement, Maraga demanded authorities release all detained young Kenyans and warned that a leadership that condones killings and human rights abuses risks losing legitimacy.
“A nation that allows its youth to be silenced through fear and violence is a nation in danger,” Maraga asserted.
Maraga’s meeting with Gen Z, his vocal stance on justice, and his symbolic actions have certainly positioned him as a moral compass in Kenya’s current political climate.
