David Maraga Says He'll Inject KSh 2m in His Presidential Campaign Kitty: "I Don't Have Money"
- Former chief justice David Maraga explained the reasons why he will not contribute much towards his 2027 presidential campaign
- He also explained the consequences Kenyans might face if President William Ruto wins a second term
- He explained his vision for Kenya, including restoring institutions, empowering anti-graft bodies, and stopping political interference if elected
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Former chief justice David Maraga has announced plans to contribute a modest portion of his savings towards his 2027 presidential campaign.
Source: Twitter
He expressed confidence that the bulk of his funding will come from ordinary Kenyans.
How much will David Maraga need?
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, July 15, Maraga said he is committed to running a grassroots, people-driven campaign, describing it as a 'Wanjiku-funded presidency.'
The presidential hopeful pledged KSh 1 million to KSh 2 million from his savings, explaining he doesn't have 'much money.'
“The details are being worked on. We will require a substantial amount of money. I will appeal to Kenyans to contribute to the campaigns and I am sure we are going to succeed. The people of Kenya will themselves fund this presidency,” he said. “I'll put in very little money, around KSh 1 million or KSh 2 million. I don’t have much money.”
Maraga expressed confidence that Kenyans, frustrated by poor governance and economic hardships, would be willing to chip in whatever they can, starting from as little as KSh 50.
“With the suffering Kenyans have gone through, I’m sure we’ll get KSh 50, KSh 100 from individuals. I’m hoping we’ll get excess, and whatever is left, we will give it to a public cause,” he said.
Source: UGC
The former CJ, who served as Kenya’s 14th chief justice, warned of dire consequences if President William Ruto secures a second term, stating that the country risks disintegration under continued mismanagement.
“Unless Kenyans come together and vote out this government, we are heading toward collapse. We need a government that will restore institutions, fix the economy, and reform governance systems,” he said.
He also pledged to empower oversight bodies such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), promising them full independence and support under his leadership.
Maraga stated that he will ensure no interference and prosecute those who have stolen from public coffers.
Meanwhile, Maraga faced backlash from supporters over plans to launch a paybill before unveiling his manifesto for the presidential bid.
Is Maraga fit for the presidency?
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi praised Maraga for his bold stance on legal principles and his historic role in nullifying a presidential election.
He described Maraga as a leader born of principled action, not political manipulation, and declared himself the former CJ’s number one supporter.
However, the lawmaker raised concerns over Maraga’s campaign team, labelling it as politically inexperienced and lacking strategy.
He warned that their approach could derail Maraga’s chances of securing the presidency.
Amisi also criticised the early fundraising efforts, comparing them to performing before the main act without setting the stage.
Who are the prominent people supporting Maraga?
A section of top lawyers in the country has thrown its weight behind the former chief justice, arguing he is the right man for the top job.
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Nelson Havi was the first one to endorse Maraga to succeed Ruto in 2027.
Havi argued that the former CJ is a dependable, honest, and untainted leader with a distinguished track record of service, thus fit to be entrusted with the leadership of the country.
The outspoken advocate also outlined Maraga's firm stance against corruption as another strong attribute that makes him stand out among all other candidates.
Will Matiang'i spoil Maraga's chances?
Both Maraga and former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i hail from the Kisii community. Although political pundits have opined that they are likely to divide their voting bloc, the two leaders have maintained that their focus is on serving all Kenyans and hence they would seek votes from across the country, without limiting themselves to their backgrounds and perceived strongholds.
Masolo Mabonga, HOD Current Affairs and Politics, updated this article with details on prominent people supporting Maraga and whether Matiang'i's presidential bid would affect Maraga's chances of succeeding Ruto
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
