Maraga Declares 2027 Presidential Bid Under United Green Movement Party

Maraga joins 2027 presidential race under the United Green Movement Party / HANDOUT.

Former Chief Justice David Kenani Maraga has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the 2027 presidential race, marking a dramatic shift from judicial service to frontline politics.

Maraga will contest under the banner of the United Green Movement Party (UGMP), a party known for its strong stance on environmental sustainability and social justice.

The announcement was made on Thursday, during a high-profile event at the UGMP headquarters Green Action House in Nairobi.

In his speech, Maraga cited his desire to restore dignity to the Kenyan people and uphold the rule of law as central to his decision to enter the political arena.

“I accepted the call to join this party because it aligns with my personal principles and ideologies on a wide range of matters including the rule of law, respect for human rights, and democratic governance,” he said.

“I have committed to building and restoring the dignity of Kenyans as well as protecting our human rights.”

Maraga’s entry into politics is expected to shake up the political landscape, injecting new momentum into a race already heating up with familiar heavyweights and emerging challengers.

Best known for his landmark ruling that nullified the 2017 presidential election, Maraga has remained a respected figure for his unwavering commitment to constitutionalism and judicial independence.

“Maraga’s integrity is his strongest asset,” noted Ndungu Kimani, a political analyst and lecturer at the University of Nairobi.

“He represents a departure from the political norm and that could resonate with voters hungry for reform.”

Maraga is expected to run on a platform of accountability, good governance, economic empowerment, environmental protection, and anti-corruption.

His candidacy could significantly boost the visibility of UGMP, a relatively smaller party led by former Ndhiwa MP Neto Agostinho, who co-chairs the party alongside other political figures.