David Maraga. Photo/Courtesy
Political commentator Daniel Njaga has delivered a blunt assessment of former Chief Justice David Maraga’s 2027 presidential bid, arguing that the campaign lacks popular appeal and risks fading unless it undergoes a major rethink.
In a public message addressed to Maraga, Njaga said the former head of the Judiciary has failed to define his candidacy in a way that resonates with ordinary voters, particularly in rural Kenya.
He dismissed the idea that Maraga’s challenge is funding, noting that the campaign’s real weakness lies in messaging and political energy.
Njaga took aim at Maraga’s emphasis on constitutionalism, branded under the slogan “Ukatiba,” saying it is too abstract to mobilise a largely rural electorate.
While acknowledging Maraga’s strong record on integrity and rule of law, he argued that such ideals, though important, do not excite voters or translate easily into mass political support.
“Politics is not judged purely on integrity,” Njaga said, adding that elections are influenced by personality, charisma, humour, passion and identity as much as policy.
He warned that assuming voters will make rational choices based only on values is a strategic mistake.
The commentator contrasted Maraga’s messaging with populist political language that has gained traction in recent years, citing slogans such as “wantam” and “tutam,” popularised by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
According to Njaga, such phrases, though simplistic, create fear within the political establishment because they are memorable and emotionally charged.
He argued that Maraga’s campaign lacks a similar hook, saying “Ukatiba” does not threaten the status quo or capture public imagination beyond educated social media audiences.
In his view, this has left Maraga without the political charm needed to become a household name.
Njaga also pointed to the 2022 election, where George Wajackoyah generated national attention through radical proposals such as legalising cannabis and snake farming.
He said those ideas, regardless of feasibility, succeeded because they were unconventional and sparked conversation.
He challenged Maraga to adopt bold and controversial proposals that would cut through public apathy and force voters to listen.
Without such a shift, Njaga argued, the campaign risks being perceived as dull and predictable.
As an alternative, Njaga advised Maraga to consider joining a united opposition front ahead of 2027.
He said Maraga would carry more political weight as part of a broader coalition than as a solo candidate, warning that current campaign crowds are unlikely to grow significantly.
Maraga has declared his intention to run for president on a platform anchored on integrity, constitutionalism and people-funded politics.
However, Njaga’s critique reflects a wider debate on whether moral authority alone can translate into electoral success in Kenya’s highly competitive political arena.