Kenya's crisis not ethnic or generational, but leadership failure, says ex-Chief Justice Maraga
Maraga called on Kenyans to begin a process of holding the President accountable for what he termed as gross violations of the Constitution.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has blamed Kenya’s current political and social turmoil on failed leadership, calling out President William Ruto and key institutions for abandoning their constitutional responsibilities and using force against civilians.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Maraga said the ongoing crisis cannot be solved through handshakes or referendums, and dismissed claims that the unrest is rooted in ethnic or generational divisions.
More To Read
- Police Constable Klinzy Baraza charged with murder of mask vendor Boniface Kariuki during June 25 protests
- CS Murkomen defends police conduct during protests, urges IPOA to hold off judgement
- IPOA report blames police for deaths, injuries and failures in June-July protests
- Murkomen puts inciting politicians on notice, vows crackdown in Rift Valley
- President Ruto responds to Maraga over ‘failed state’ remarks, defends government record
- Maraga pledges citizen-led movement, says his 2027 manifesto will be open to public input
“This is not an inter-generational conflict, as others wish to frame it. Neither is it an ethnic or constitutional crisis requiring a referendum or yet another handshake. It is a failure of leadership,” he said.
He condemned what he described as the government's decision to unleash police and military forces on unarmed citizens, accusing the President of neglecting his duty.
“This failure is exemplified by the President’s abdication of responsibility, as his government oversees the weaponisation of police and military against unarmed Kenyans,” he said.
Maraga called on Kenyans to begin a process of holding the President accountable for what he termed as gross violations of the Constitution.
“We must commence a process to hold the President accountable for gross violations of the Constitution,” he said.
Without outlining specific actions, the former CJ said it is up to young people, who have been at the centre of recent protests, to determine the way forward. He said their courage and sacrifices should not be in vain.
“We must listen to the concerns of the young people who have paid a heavy price since last year,” he added.
The Former Chief Justice stated that accountability must go beyond the presidency and extend to key state institutions.
He singled out the National Assembly, the National Police Service, the Inspector General, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority for failing to uphold the law.
“We must hold accountable all leaders of institutions that have failed in upholding the Rule of Law, including the National Police Service, the IG, DCI, IPOA, and the National Assembly,” he stated.
He also dismissed any future elite political arrangements, warning that such deals have failed to solve the problems affecting ordinary Kenyans.
Referencing the 2018 handshake between Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, Maraga said these kinds of settlements only protect the interests of a few and not the public.
The former CJ expressed sorrow over the lives lost during the recent protests, calling the killings unacceptable and unjustified.
He urged Kenyans to unite around shared values and voices that can help restore constitutional order, improve public services, and promote dignity for all.
Top Stories Today
