Former Chief Justice David Maraga has faulted the government over its handling of recent protests, describing it not as a constitutional or ethnic crisis, but as a result of failed leadership and weakened public institutions.

In a statement released on Tuesday, July 8, through his presidential campaign secretariat, Maraga condemned the killing of protesters, the use of force on unarmed civilians, and the destruction of property witnessed during the recent commemoration of the Saba Saba Day.

“This is not an inter-generational conflict, as others wish to frame it,” Maraga stated. “Neither is it an ethnic or constitutional crisis requiring a referendum, nor yet another handshake. This is a failure of leadership, an institutional failure, and not a constitutional deficit.”

The 2027 presidential aspirant went on to accuse the President of abandoning his duty and presiding over a government that has turned security agencies against their people.

“It is a failure that exposes the President’s abdication of responsibility when his government oversees the weaponization of police and military against unarmed Kenyans,” he noted.

Maraga acknowledged the bravery of the youth-led protests, saying the demonstrators represent the broader frustration of millions of Kenyans facing economic hardship and poor public services, mourning the loss of lives, with families affected.

“These young Kenyans are not alone. Their voices carry the pain of millions of Kenyans who are tired of where the country is heading,” he stated.

The former Chief Justice, proposed a four-point plan that includes listening to the youth, rejecting elite settlements, prosecuting those behind the violence and destruction, and initiating a process to hold the President accountable.

Maraga eyes State House.

David Maraga recently affirmed that he will fulfill young Kenyans request of vying for presidency in 2027, saying that youths have pressured him to vie for the country’s top seat because of his leadership qualities backed by his excellent and exemplary past performance record.

The former Chief Justice mentioned inability by the current leadership to stump out deep rooted corruption as the root cause of Kenya’s economic crisis, lack of respect for the rule of law, substandard healthcare to the citizens with nonfunctioning health insurance schemes amongst other thorny issues which have made the living standards unbearable to many Kenyans.

Maraga says his plan to reform Kenya begins with restoring professionalism in the government, enforcing the rule of law, and combating corruption without fear.

Speaking during an interview recently, Maraga said the country is broken because leaders have abandoned constitutional order and failed to give professionals the space to work.

Maraga said if elected, he will assemble a competent team, allow them to perform their duties without interference, while holding them accountable.

“I am a lawyer; we have many other professionals. This country requires many people, and what I can assure Kenyans is that I will assemble a team of professionals in various areas. I will not purport to know what is done in the medical field. I will leave that to the experts,” Maraga said.

“What I will do is necessary vetting and get the necessary people in place, once there, allow them to work, but call them to account. I believe that is what is required, and if Kenyans trust me, I am committed to doing exactly that. I will provide leadership that will enable the professionals to do their work as required, and the country will move forward,” he added.

He stressed that Kenya must return to constitutionalism, where the law applies equally to all. He said that as president, he will lead by example and guide the country back to order.

“What we have right now is a situation where we are leading to a total breakdown of the rule of law, those in authority think they can do whatever they want and escape with it. If we continue with that, we cannot have a country,” he warned.

The former CJ said corruption is weakening the nation, and he pledged to confront it directly. He recalled his time at the judiciary, where those found guilty of graft were removed from office, and said that same principle will guide his leadership.

“I know what I’m up against, that I am going to step on very thick toes, but it requires someone to do and trust me, I will,” he said. “Where there will be evidence, I will be the first person to send any person found culpable home.”

Maraga said his decision to run for president was not made lightly. It followed deep reflection and discussions with like-minded individuals who shared his concerns over the state of the country.