Senator Onyonka: Why we think it's Matiang’i and not Maraga’s moment

The candidature of former Chief Justice David Maraga is likely to cause fresh political ripples, if reactions to it are anything to go by.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, who is campaigning for Kenyans to consider former Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i as their presidential choice, is unhappy with Maraga’s fresh bid, especially after retiring as the country’s head of the Judiciary.

In an interview with The Eastleigh Voice, Onyonka dismissed Maraga’s grand dream, arguing that the former CJ is not well-versed in the challenges currently afflicting the country.

“I think Maraga does not understand the depth of the problems we have as a country. We cannot hand over leadership to him simply because he nullified a presidential petition before him,” said Onyonka.

According to him, Maraga’s moral uprightness does not make him an ideal candidate to steer the country forward, as a presidential contest demands much more.

“Believe me, there is more to politics than simply saying that you are not corrupt. Running a country requires a tough and decisive person like Matiang’i,” said Onyonka.

Maraga, who has been toying with the idea of moving to the House on the Hill following support from Generation Z—the country’s youngest voters and passionate advocates for change—says he is ready to offer himself for the top job in order to drive transformation.

“At the end of the day, it is the people who will decide. Just relax, wait, and in due course, you will make up your mind as to whether or not I am a state project,” he said.

Onyonka also believes Maraga is a sponsored candidate, meant to undermine Matiang’i’s chances. “Look at who is with him—government operatives! Look at all the government bloggers attacking Matiang’i. Who are the people accompanying him to his functions?” asked Onyonka.

The former CJ, however, has been quick to point out that the final decision rests with the electorate while firmly dismissing claims that he is anyone's project.

“It is public knowledge that Matiang’i demonstrated exemplary leadership during his tenure as Cabinet Secretary for various ministries. From Education to Interior, he made remarkable strides in service delivery to Kenyans,” added Onyonka.

The senator denied claims that their support for Matiang’i was driven by a dislike for Orange Democratic Movement Party Leader Raila Odinga following his fresh pact with President William Ruto.

“We are certain that Raila will not be running for the presidency this time around. Since he has been our candidate in the past, we have decided to support Dr Matiang’i, who we believe enjoys widespread national support.”

Matiang’i was recently announced as the Jubilee Party’s presidential flag bearer by Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, who revealed that he had expressed interest in the top seat.

“Matiang’i has simply expressed a desire, and it is the party’s responsibility to market its candidate across the country,” Kioni stated.

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Kioni argued that, for a party of Jubilee’s stature, having a clear presidential candidate is crucial.

“As a party of Jubilee’s size, it is not in our best interest to operate without a presidential candidate. When individuals are willing to offer leadership, they should be given a fair chance,” he added.

Kioni also revealed that Matiang’i would soon address the public about his political plans.

“Matiang’i is the one who reached out, and he will be speaking about it himself in the coming days. We won’t have to wait too long. When he feels the time is right, he will make his position clear,” Kioni stated.