Maraga Calls for Stronger, Independent Institutions During Minnesota Visit

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has called for stronger and more independent institutions in Kenya during a visit to the Minnesota State Capitol in St Paul.

Maraga, who is on a political tour of the United States, was received by Kenyan-American legislator Huldah Momanyi. He toured Minnesota’s legislature and judiciary and said the institutions showed how public bodies can maintain credibility and effectiveness beyond the tenure of individual officeholders.

“Institutions endure, and their integrity outlasts the individuals who occupy them,” Maraga said. 

He argued that Kenya should invest in systems that can serve future generations after current leaders have left office. Maraga also highlighted the importance of involving young people in governance. He pointed to Minnesota programmes that introduce young people to legislative processes and public service as a model Kenya could consider.

He said Kenya should make similar investments in its youth, particularly by strengthening their understanding of governance and leadership. The Minnesota visit is part of Maraga’s wider tour of the United States, during which he has met diaspora communities and academic institutions. His engagements have focused on constitutionalism, accountability and the resilience of public institutions.

Maraga has argued that Kenya’s democratic future should be built on institutions that can withstand changes in political leadership and electoral cycles. He has also linked youth participation to the long-term strength and effectiveness of those institutions.