Speculations As Maraga Hosts Gen-Z Activists

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has ignited discussions across social media platforms after hosting a group of civil society activists, predominantly Gen Z, at his Nairobi home.

The meeting, which took place on Tuesday, has been seen by many as a significant endorsement of the youth-led governance reform movement in Kenya.

In a video that quickly circulated online, Maraga was seen singing alongside the activists, participating in a liberation song that became emblematic during the 2024 anti-government protests. This song, sung in Swahili, emphasizes youth sacrifice for national betterment.

Following the meeting, Maraga shared his thoughts on social media, expressing his support for the young activists. “The youth’s struggle for a better Kenya deserves all our support,” he posted. He specifically thanked Nyamisa Chelagat, one of the movement’s leaders, for the visit and commended their dedication to transforming Kenya.

Rights activist Nyamisa Chelagat highlighted the meeting’s importance, stating, “We updated him on the movement’s fight for good governance, the rule of law, and constitutionalism—issues he deeply relates to. We inducted him into the movement; he sang with us as we welcomed him to the struggle to liberate Kenya.”

“Well done GenZs. We have a candidate for President of the Republic of Kenya. David Kenani Maraga it is.” Former LSK President Nelson Havi said in reaction to the meeting.

Since retiring from his judicial role, Maraga has kept a relatively low profile but has not shied away from critiquing governmental actions, particularly concerning abductions and extrajudicial killings.

His reputation as a defender of human rights was solidified when he annulled the 2017 presidential election results due to irregularities.

His recent comments echo his ongoing concerns about government legitimacy. Last week, he warned that the “continued abductions and killings threaten the legitimacy of the Kenya Kwanza administration.”

While some on social media speculate about Maraga’s potential political future, suggesting he might run for president in 2027 or take up a role with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Maraga has not confirmed any such plans.