Former Chief Justice David Maraga has hinted at his willingness to serve Kenya as its sixth president, given the opportunity.

He stated that his priority would be to fight corruption and uphold the rule of law.

“If I were given the privilege to govern this country, I would ensure that everyone obeys the law. The moment we achieve this, everything else will fall into place,” said Maraga.

He reiterated his commitment to tackling corruption. “The issue of money not going through the Consolidated Fund will come to an end,” he declared, drawing applause from the audience. 

Maraga was speaking on Thursday at Uhuru Park, Nairobi during a session at the People’s Dialogue Festival, organised by the Centre for Multiparty Democracy.

He was accompanied by former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi. Maraga was responding to calls from the youth, who asked whether he intended to contest the presidency and what he would prioritise if elected.

In recent times, the former CJ has been vocal on governance and justice issues. However, he has often shied away from confirming whether he harbours presidential ambitions.

On Thursday, when asked directly about his plans to run for President, Maraga replied:

“I can answer that by asking you: what or who do you want to run? What type of leader do you want? I am thinking about it, and I am asking you—what kind of leaders do you, or Kenyans, want? What issues should be addressed moving forward? This is a political conversation, and we are all part of it for the good of our country.” 

Maraga expressed solidarity with the youth, criticising their mistreatment through abductions and assaults in recent times.

“I have grandchildren. The youth are the future of our country, and we should do everything possible to nurture and empower them in anticipation of passing leadership to them,” he said.

He added: “Before I retired, I had a duty to perform. Now that I am retired, I have free time, and as a Kenyan, I am entitled to political rights. When there is a forum discussing political issues, I have the right to participate, just as you do.”

The four-day event, organised by Pawa254, Siasa Place, Emerging Leaders Foundation (ELF), Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD), and the National Youth Council of Kenya (NYCK), will conclude on Saturday. It is expected to feature more than 80 topical dialogue sessions across six thematic areas, including governance, democracy, education, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), political dialogue, and public finance management, among others.

Maraga blamed rampant corruption for the country’s woes, arguing that resources were being plundered with impunity.

“…The Constitution is a living document. It sets out the principles of governance and allocates power and authority to various institutions, including the three arms of government and other bodies,” he said.

He added: “There is nothing wrong with Kenya’s democracy. Some principles are universal, whether you are in Kenya or Malaysia. As far as I am concerned, our Constitution is among the best.”

The former Chief Justice urged the youth to hold those failing to implement the Constitution accountable to ensure peace and equitable distribution of national resources.

On how he would create space for more young people in governance if given the opportunity, he said: “A good leader understands that they will not be in power forever. Knowing this, they must equip young people with skills and allow them to participate in development.”