Former Chief Justice David Maraga has ruled out working with President William Ruto. In a video shared by The Star, Maraga said the two cannot collaborate due to a fundamental clash of values.
“How can I work with him? We can’t work together because his values are completely different from mine,” he said.
However, Maraga signaled willingness to engage former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. He stressed that any cooperation would depend on commitment to the rule of law and service to Kenyans.
“Gachagua, we will sit down and see what they want to do for the people of Kenya. If it is to do what we want to do for Kenyans, then we can work together. I am open to it. But if his character and record do not follow the law, it will be difficult to work with him,” Maraga stated.
Maraga has recently become a strong critic of the Ruto administration. His criticism intensified following the Gen Z anti-government protests.
He is also preparing for a possible run in the 2027 presidential elections. Maraga has not revealed which party he will use, but he insists his bid is about providing “clean, accountable, and ethical leadership.” He aims to present himself as a moral alternative to President Ruto.
The former Chief Justice said his decision to run is motivated by what he sees as a looming national crisis.
“It is the way things have been run in this country. If we all stay back and watch, we will find ourselves drowning in the Indian Ocean. Everyone will suffer. We should not let those in power mess the country when we are watching,” he warned.
On coalitions, Maraga emphasized that partnerships must not be based on convenience. Any alliance should align with his core vision of transparent governance and strict adherence to the rule of law.
Maraga’s statements make it clear that he sees a values gap with Ruto. Yet, he is leaving the door open for strategic collaborations with leaders like Gachagua who share his commitment to ethical governance.
