Former Chief Justice David Maraga has been persuaded to consider a presidential bid in 2027, following sustained efforts by Kisii Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church elders and legal professionals. According to former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Nelson Havi, the move came after months of lobbying, with Maraga initially rejecting the idea outright.
Havi revealed that he first approached Maraga’s close aides to broach the idea before turning to respected church elders, banking on their shared faith and moral authority to sway the retired CJ. “Being a church elder himself, we knew he would respect the views of fellow elders,” Havi said, adding that Maraga’s resistance only began to soften after this religious appeal.
Havi, who considered contesting for the presidency himself, stepped aside, citing perceptions of being “too aggressive” and the potential political baggage he carries. He disclosed that he had previously tried to convince another former CJ, Willy Mutunga, to run, but Mutunga declined, preferring to enjoy his retirement.
Despite concerns about Maraga’s age, Havi believes the former CJ is best suited to lead Kenya back to the path of justice and constitutionalism. “We don’t need an energetic leader to take us to war. We need a calm, principled individual who can restore the rule of law and ensure justice,” he said. He contrasted Maraga’s integrity and modest lifestyle with current political figures, emphasizing that the former CJ has no appetite for wealth or land acquisition.
Maraga’s potential campaign, though still in early stages, is expected to focus on uniting generations under a shared desire for ethical leadership. “This is not just about Gen Z, it’s about Gen zote (all generations). We want inclusive, honest governance,” Havi remarked.
Acknowledging that President Ruto remains a formidable opponent, Havi said Maraga’s team would avoid traditional political theatrics and instead engage the public through strategic messaging rooted in justice, unity, and anti-corruption ideals. “Kenyans are tired of empty promises and ethnic politics,” he said. “Maraga represents a clean break.”
