Maraga Blasts Govt After Billions from eTA Scheme Funneled to Swiss Bank Accounts

Kenya’s former Chief Justice David Maraga has dropped a political bombshell by openly criticizing the government over its controversial decision to stash funds from the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) programme in a Swiss bank account.

In a strongly worded statement, Maraga accused top officials of violating the Constitution and playing with the trust of millions of struggling Kenyans.

The ex-CJ now demands transparency and accountability in what could spiral into yet another major scandal in the country’s history.

His firm stand has ignited debate on how public funds are handled—and where the line between governance and greed should be drawn.

Kenya’s economic struggles are deeply rooted in mismanagement and a total lack of transparency when it comes to public funds. The former CJ warned that Kenyans are the ones who pay the price when officials make backroom deals. [Photo: Courtesy]

Ex-CJ Maraga Slams Govt Over Swiss Transfer of eTA Billions

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has blasted the government over the decision to transfer eTA billions into a Swiss bank account.

The retired jurist, respected for his commitment to justice and constitutionalism, described the move as a blatant violation of the Constitution.

He insists that all public funds collected must be deposited into the Consolidated Fund, as required by law—not hidden abroad.

“This is yet another flagrant violation of the Constitution,” Maraga said in his Tuesday morning statement. “All monies collected by the government must be deposited in the Consolidated Fund. Why was this not done?”

Maraga is particularly concerned that Parliament was bypassed. He questioned how such a decision could be executed without oversight from lawmakers—especially when it involves billions.

“When did Parliament approve this pilot? Why an offshore Swiss account with its long history of secrecy? Who are the signatories? What guarantees do we have that this is not another scandal crafted to siphon public money?” he asked.

His comments come just a day after Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura admitted the transaction had occurred during a piloting phase of the eTA project, which he claimed involved collaboration with a Swiss company. But for Maraga, the explanation falls flat.

No Transparency, No Trust

Maraga’s statement goes beyond legal concerns. He connects the eTA billions scandal to Kenya’s broader governance crisis.

According to him, Kenya’s economic struggles are deeply rooted in mismanagement and a total lack of transparency when it comes to public funds. The former CJ warned that Kenyans are the ones who pay the price when officials make backroom deals.

“The lack of transparency and accountability in the use of public resources is the main reason for the economic hardship Kenyans face. The suffering is real, and it hits the common mwananchi the hardest,” Maraga said.

In the past, Kenyans have seen high-profile corruption cases go unpunished. From the Arror and Kimwarer dam scandal to the NYS heist, billions have been looted in broad daylight.

Maraga argues that the eTA billions saga could be yet another scheme to enrich a few at the expense of the many.

A Call for Leadership Reset

Maraga didn’t hold back when calling out Kenya’s leadership. In his boldest remark yet, the former CJ urged Kenyans to start demanding a “reset of values, vision, and uncompromising rule of law.”

He said the only way to clean up the country is by removing political leaders and entrenched cartels who continue to harm the nation.

“Kenya needs a reset. We must now be fearless in removing political leadership and cartels who do immeasurable and unacceptable harm to Kenyans,” he said.

This isn’t the first time Maraga has stood up against state excesses. During his time as Chief Justice, he famously nullified a presidential election—an act that made him both a hero and a target.

His latest comments show he still believes in holding the government accountable, even from retirement.

The former CJ’s intervention has reignited public outrage over how the government is handling funds meant to support essential services and development.

Civil society organizations and legal experts have now joined calls for a full audit of the eTA programme and the Swiss account transactions.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura [Photo/Courtesy]

 Isaac Mwaura Gave a Weak Defense

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura tried to downplay the controversy on Monday, April 14.

He said the Swiss transactions were part of a “piloting phase” of the ETA programme, which aimed to improve partnerships with a Swiss firm.

“There was a piloting phase for the ETA programme, which was a collaboration between the Kenyan government and a Swiss company,” he said.

But Mwaura’s remarks have only deepened suspicions. Kenyans want to know why such a sensitive financial move was made without proper checks and public knowledge.

Critics argue that even during a pilot, financial protocols must be respected. The Constitution is clear: no public money should be moved outside the Consolidated Fund without Parliament’s involvement.

Another Scandal in the Making?

The transfer of eTA billions to a Swiss account has sent shockwaves across Kenya. With David Maraga now adding his voice to the growing criticism, pressure is mounting on the government to explain itself fully and return the funds.

This is not just about missing money. It’s about the future of Kenya’s democracy, transparency, and economic justice.

Maraga’s blunt warning is clear: Kenya cannot afford to let this scandal slide. Not this time.