Maraga: Opposition to Field One Candidate Against Ruto in 2027

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has called for a united opposition in the 2027 General Election, saying Kenyans should have the final say on who becomes its presidential candidate.

Speaking during the funeral of George Morara Ongenyo Mogeni in North Mugirango, Nyamira County, Maraga said the election should focus on governance, accountability and the delivery of public services under President William Ruto’s administration. Maraga, who is associated with the United Green Movement (UGM), said opposition leaders should support a single presidential candidate to improve their chances of challenging the government. 

However, he argued that the choice of candidate should reflect the wishes of ordinary Kenyans rather than decisions made by political leaders behind closed doors. He linked public dissatisfaction with corruption allegations, economic difficulties and declining confidence in state institutions to the need for political change. Although he did not endorse a particular candidate, he maintained that voters should play a central role in deciding who leads the opposition.

Maraga also criticised what he described as failures in leadership and accountability, arguing that Kenya’s challenges stem from the misuse of available resources rather than a lack of them. He pledged to uphold the Constitution, strengthen the rule of law and ensure public officials are held accountable for their actions if elected president.

Fighting corruption was a central part of his message. Maraga said his administration would enforce strict standards of integrity and ensure that no individual was above the law. He also sought to distinguish his approach from established political practices by emphasising accountability and responsible management of public funds.

Healthcare was another major issue in his address. Maraga said many Kenyans continue to struggle to access treatment and essential medicines in public health facilities. He proposed strengthening dispensaries and health centres to improve access to care and reduce the financial pressure on households.

His remarks come amid wider concerns about the quality of public healthcare, including the availability of medicines, adequate staffing and reliable funding. By placing these issues at the centre of his political message, Maraga signalled that service delivery would be a key part of his appeal to voters ahead of the next election.

He also criticised disruptions in higher education, citing the ongoing university lecturers’ strike. Maraga warned that prolonged interruptions to learning could harm students’ prospects and undermine Kenya’s development. He called for greater investment in schools and universities, arguing that education should be treated as a national priority.

The former Chief Justice further questioned reports about the size and cost of Kenya’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly. Citing media reports suggesting substantial public expenditure, he called for greater transparency in the use of state funds. However, an official breakdown of the reported costs had not been released at the time of his remarks.

Maraga also urged voters to reject political inducements and ethnic loyalties when choosing their leaders. He said electoral decisions should be based on integrity, performance and the ability to improve living standards rather than money or community affiliations.