Former Chief Justice David Maraga has dismissed accusations that he is attempting to sabotage former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s presidential ambitions.

Maraga has stated that he will not decline a call from Kenyans to run against President William Ruto in 2027, placing him at odds with those supporting Matiang’i.

Both men are from the Abagusii community. On Sunday, Maraga was confronted by a Nyamira Member of the County Assembly (MCA) who questioned the timing of his announcement regarding his presidential bid.

Nyamira County Assembly Leader of Majority Nyambega Gisesa criticised the former Chief Justice’s decision to enter the presidential race in the next General Election.

The two met at the funeral of former Cereal Growers Association of Kenya Chief Executive David Nyameino’s son, at Nyaronge in Gesima, Nyamira County.

Gisesa, who is the national chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance – a party associated with Matiang’i – urged Maraga to step aside for the former CS, claiming that Matiang’i was more popular.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee Party has also announced its intention to field Matiang’i as its presidential candidate, although he has not yet made an official announcement regarding his interest in the position.

“Our elder Maraga, we have been together, but now we are with Matiang’i. As Kisii people, let us not be confused over who our presidential candidate will be,” said Gisesa.

Maraga, however, insisted he was not trying to undermine Matiang’i.

“It should not be misconstrued that I am trying to undermine my brother Matiang’i,” said Maraga.

He added: “When the time comes, things will sort themselves out and Kenyans will have their say.”

Nairobi-based lawyer Dennis Abincha, a supporter of Maraga, argued that the former CJ would be the best presidential candidate due to his “clean record.”

“Maraga has maintained a spotless record throughout his career in the Judiciary and as a private citizen. He is known for his firm belief in the rule of law and good governance,” said Abincha.

Former Borabu MP Ben Momanyi described Maraga’s candidacy as inevitable. “No candidate in the country has a record to match Maraga’s. We should support him by all means,” said Momanyi.

North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko also supports Maraga’s presidential ambitions but emphasised the importance of broad consensus among leaders and residents.

“It’s a good thing to see our brothers show ambition. However, they should not become a cause of division in our community,” said Nyamoko.

The MP called for unity ahead of the next elections.

“We must speak with one voice and ensure our representation at the national leadership table. This is why other communities can successfully partner in the national government, especially when our votes have been divided and taken advantage of,” Nyamoko argued.

Former West Mugirango legislator Vincent Kemosi also expressed confidence that Maraga and Matiang’i would be persuaded to agree on a single presidential candidate from the community.

“I have engaged with Matiang’i, and he has assured me of his strong ambition. What I am certain of is we can only have one candidate from our community if we truly have a strong political voice,” Kemosi said.