Human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has issued a strong appeal to former Chief Justice David Maraga, urging him to cease what he describes as incitement of young Kenyans and instead embrace his role as a respected elder, father, and grandfather by fostering unity, peace, and responsible leadership across the country.
Ngetich lamented that Maraga, who once held the highest judicial office in the land, should embody wisdom and maturity, offering guidance and mentorship to the youth, rather than sowing division or stirring unrest. “As a former head of the judiciary, he commands respect and carries the burden of setting an example for all Kenyans. It is therefore disappointing and deeply concerning that he has chosen a path of political opportunism and tribal rhetoric,” said Ngetich.
The activist went further to critique Maraga’s tenure as Chief Justice, asserting that the legacy he leaves behind is not one of significant reform or progress in the judiciary. “Despite holding the office for several years, Maraga never took bold steps to combat the systemic corruption that has plagued the judiciary for decades,” Ngetich said. “We witnessed rampant misuse of office, mishandling of cases, and a justice system riddled with inefficiencies. Yet Maraga failed to lead meaningful reforms addressing these critical issues.”
Ngetich emphasized that issues such as the shortage of judicial officers, the disappearance of court files, delays in case rulings, and lack of accountability were rampant during Maraga’s leadership. “It is unfortunate that instead of tackling these systemic problems, he often defended corrupt judges who were his friends and allies,” he added.
Reflecting on the year 2020, when the current Director of National Intelligence openly spoke about the rot in the judiciary, Ngetich recalled how Maraga reacted not with constructive engagement, but by vehemently criticizing the intelligence chief’s remarks as unfair and targeted attacks on the judiciary. “This defensive posture raises serious questions about Maraga’s commitment to genuine reform and transparency,” said Ngetich.
The activist also accused Maraga of becoming a political figure driven by hatred, tribalism, and selfish ambitions. “He is exploiting the frustrations of the youth, many of whom may be unaware of his record or the missed opportunities during his tenure as Chief Justice,” Ngetich said. “It appears he is now a political tool being used by some political elites, including President Gachagua’s camp, to manipulate public opinion under the guise of pushing for reforms.”
Ngetich expressed concern over Maraga’s association with opposition leaders who, in his view, possess questionable integrity and whose political rhetoric risks deepening divisions in the country. “Instead of rising above tribal and partisan politics, Maraga seems to have aligned himself with warmongers and selfish actors,” said the activist.
On the broader societal challenges facing Kenya, Ngetich observed that Maraga never took a leading role in addressing youth unemployment, lack of mentorship, or social stability, all critical issues that affect the country’s future. “Despite the constitutional guarantees for fundamental rights and freedoms, we have seen an alarming rise in lawlessness, hooliganism, and attacks on security officers, especially by some disillusioned youth,” he said. “This growing culture of disrespect and disobedience threatens the very fabric of our society.”
The activist appealed to Kenyans to remain vigilant against self-serving individuals who seek to misuse the youth for political gains. He warned the government and the public that planned protests and assemblies scheduled for June 25 may not remain peaceful, citing fears that the youth agenda has been hijacked by opportunists preparing to instigate violence and confront security forces.
“We do not want loss of life, destruction of property, or disruption of businesses and peace,” Ngetich stressed. “There are appropriate and lawful ways for young people to channel their grievances and seek redress, but confrontation and chaos are not the answers.”
Ngetich urged the youth to associate themselves with leaders who genuinely have their interests at heart and who are committed to mentorship, empowerment, and job creation initiatives. “Young people are the backbone of any nation; they deserve guidance that positively shapes their social and emotional development to build a better future for themselves and Kenya,” he said.
He concluded by emphasizing that responsible leadership requires unity, integrity, and respect for the rule of law. “The future of our country depends on sober thinking, committed leadership, and proper arrangements, not the politicization of youth issues or the exploitation of their numbers and strength,” Ngetich said.
The activist called on former Chief Justice Maraga to reflect on his legacy and the example he sets, urging him to stop inciting divisions and instead use his experience to foster peace, justice, and national cohesion.
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