Maraga Pledges Zero Tolerance for Corruption if Elected

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has announced his bid for Kenya’s presidency, pledging to lead an uncompromising fight against corruption and restore public trust through transparency and accountability.

Launching his campaign in Tana River County under the United Green Movement Party, Maraga presented himself as a reform-minded candidate committed to dismantling entrenched graft networks and promoting ethical governance. He described corruption as the country’s main obstacle to progress, blaming it for weakening institutions, worsening poverty, and hindering economic growth. Maraga promised to introduce a direct accountability system where public officials would answer to citizens for any misuse of public funds. 

“If a shilling is stolen in your name, the person responsible will answer to you publicly,” he said, adding that any Cabinet Secretary or senior official implicated in corruption would be immediately dismissed and prosecuted.

Drawing parallels with the leadership style of the late Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli, Maraga called for a culture of discipline and decisive action. He criticised Kenya’s political class for focusing on rhetoric rather than results, arguing that leadership should be measured by tangible reforms. 

“Leadership is not about shouting but about taking action,” he said.

Reflecting on his tenure as Chief Justice, Maraga cited the 2017 Supreme Court ruling that annulled a presidential election and his 2020 advisory to dissolve Parliament over the two-thirds gender rule as evidence of his commitment to constitutional principles and moral courage.

Maraga’s move into politics marks a significant shift from his judicial career, positioning him as a candidate focused on integrity and institutional reform. His campaign aims to build systems that prevent corruption before it occurs, promote merit-based appointments, and strengthen oversight of public resources.

He argued that Kenya’s challenges stem not from a lack of ability but from weak ethics and poor discipline in leadership. Maraga said his vision is to create a government driven by honesty, transparency and citizen participation, with the goal of transforming Kenya into a modern and accountable state.