Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

- Former chief justice David Maraga has thrown his hat into the 2027 presidential ring, announcing his candidacy in a challenge to President William Ruto’s re-election bid.

In a no-holds-barred interview aired on Wednesday, June 19, on NTV, Maraga said his decision followed deep reflection on what he described as the country’s drift into lawlessness.

The retired CJ, widely respected for his judicial independence and integrity, framed the upcoming election as a battle for the soul of the nation.

He put it out that the 2027 polls would be a choice between restoring the rule of law and allowing the country to slide further into impunity and corruption.

"This has come as a result of what has happened in the country. To see our young people being handled the way they have been handled is something which is extremely worrying, extremely worrying. So, I mean, after discussions with friends and others and after serious reflection, I thought this is, it is time that we think about the leadership of this country. We think about the leadership of this country," Maraga said.

Referencing the recent wave of youth-led protests and what he called a violent state response, Maraga said he had consulted widely and concluded that only bold, principled leadership could save the country from further decay.

"We can't let some people literally take throw our country to the dogs. We need to think about that seriously, and it is as a result of that reflection, I have made up my mind that I will run in 2027 for the presidency of this country," he declared.

Maraga's decision marks one of the most unexpected twists yet in Kenya’s ever-evolving political landscape.

Known for his historic 2017 ruling that nullified former president Uhuru Kenyatta’s re-election, Maraga is positioning himself as a moral candidate.

He has further positioned himself to claim the mantle of the Gen Z movement that has become a vocal force in the streets and online.

His sharpest criticism was reserved for Ruto’s administration, which he accused of treating the public and especially the youth with contempt.

Maraga said the law had become an inconvenience for those in power rather than a framework for accountability.

"It is time we think about resetting our country back to constitutionalism where everyone thinks about the rule of law and adhering to the constitution," Maraga added.

Despite his strong entry, Maraga has yet to indicate any willingness to align himself with other opposition figures.

His independent posture sets him apart from the likes of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, PLP’s Martha Karua, ex-Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, and DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, who are exploring a joint ticket to face Ruto in 2027.

Maraga’s candidacy adds a new dynamic to an already complex political race.

Source: TUKO.co.ke