Maraga Banks on Public Donations to Fund Presidential Bid

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has said he intends to fund his 2027 presidential campaign through small donations from ordinary Kenyans, calling it a people-driven push to reshape the country’s leadership.

Speaking on Citizen TV during a prime-time interview, Maraga said he would contribute a modest amount himself — between KSh1 million and KSh2 million — but stressed that the bulk of campaign funds would come directly from citizens.

“We’re working on the numbers, and it’s clear the campaign will need a substantial amount of money,” Maraga said. “But I’m convinced we will appeal to Kenyans to fund this movement. It will be their government — a Wanjiku government.”

The former Chief Justice, who served from 2016 to 2021, said the donations would be voluntary and minimal, given the difficult economic times facing many households. Contributions as little as KSh10 or KSh20, he argued, would send a strong message about citizen ownership of the political process.

“The people we are speaking to are already asking when the Paybill will be set up,” he noted. “They’re ready. We’re not asking for a lot from anyone.”

Surplus for the Public Good

Maraga added that his team expects the campaign to receive more than it needs — a surplus, he said, that would be channelled into public causes if not spent.

The campaign strategy mirrors grassroots fundraising efforts used in other democracies but is uncommon in Kenyan politics, where large donors and political financiers typically dominate the landscape.

Aiming at Ruto

Maraga used the interview to level sharp criticism at the current administration. He accused President William Ruto of breaching the Constitution and blamed Parliament for failing to initiate impeachment proceedings.

“Parliament has the power to impeach the President. He has violated countless provisions,” Maraga said. “If Parliament were doing its work, the President would not be in office today.”

The former CJ, known for nullifying the 2017 presidential election in a landmark ruling, has emerged as one of Ruto’s most vocal critics in recent months. His growing profile signals a new kind of political challenge — one grounded in law, institutional reform, and now, citizen financing.

The Road Ahead

Maraga joins a crowded field of potential challengers eyeing the 2027 General Election. But by pitching his campaign as publicly funded, he hopes to stand apart as a candidate untethered from traditional political machinery.

“Once we are funded by the people, no one can arm-twist us,” he said. “This will be a government accountable only to Kenyans.”

For now, he remains tight-lipped about the finer details of his campaign team and strategy. But one thing is clear: Maraga is not shying away from battle — legal, political, or financial.