Former Kenya International Conference Centre (KICC) chair, Irungu Nyakera, has praised the public fundraising efforts for United Green Movement (UGM) presidential aspirant and former Chief Justice David Maraga, describing them as a milestone for Kenya’s democratic evolution.
Speaking on X, Nyakera noted that in advanced democracies, citizens routinely fund campaigns of aspirants seeking elective office.
“However, in Kenya, candidates either finance themselves or are bankrolled by interested parties, brokers, political godfathers, and cartels. Once in office, these elected officials only answer to those financiers, making accountability impossible,” he said.
Nyakera expressed admiration for the growing culture of citizen-funded campaigns, pointing to Maraga’s recent announcement as a positive signal.
“This is why I was very impressed by the public fundraising for David Maraga. It shows Kenya as a maturing democracy. Kenyans should take this further by funding candidates for MCA, MP, Senator, Governor, and President who have a clear record and integrity. When leaders are funded by the people, the people have the right and power to hold them accountable,” he added.
Maraga revealed that 1,834 supporters have contributed a total of KES 7,745,788.04 to his campaign, with Kenyans in the Diaspora accounting for over KES 6 million of the funds.
The former chief justice expressed deep gratitude for the contributions, emphasizing the role of transparency and accountability in the process.
In a statement, Maraga said the funds will support the #UkatibaCaravan, a nationwide civic education initiative aimed at promoting voter registration, particularly among young Kenyans.
The campaign aligns with his goal of mobilizing #GenZ15MillionStrong, targeting increased participation of the youth in shaping Kenya’s political future.