Retired Chief Justice David Maraga has announced plans to spearhead a nationwide civic push aimed at blocking any attempts to tamper with Kenya’s presidential term limits, warning that the country’s constitutional order is under renewed threat.
In a strongly worded statement, Maraga accused the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) administration of engineering constitutional amendments designed to extend President William Ruto’s tenure beyond the limits set in the 2010 Constitution. He argued that recent proposals for constitutional changes are driven by political self-interest rather than the needs of the people.
According to Maraga, the Constitution remains robust and fit for purpose, and the real challenge lies in the failure by political leaders to fully implement and respect its provisions. He cautioned that altering key safeguards, such as term limits, would weaken democratic accountability and reverse gains made since the promulgation of the current Constitution.
The former Chief Justice said he has committed himself to leading the “Ukatiba Movement,” a civic initiative he described as dedicated to defending constitutionalism, protecting the sovereignty of the people, and resisting the expansion of what he termed illegal and unnecessary bureaucracy. He called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and actively oppose any changes that undermine the spirit and letter of the supreme law.
Maraga also dismissed arguments that constitutional amendments are urgently needed, saying the push for changes risks diverting attention from urgent economic pressures, unemployment, and the high cost of living affecting millions of households.
His remarks come as debate intensifies following a proposal by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to hold a constitutional referendum alongside the 2027 General Election. Mudavadi has argued that unresolved issues, including electoral boundaries, the two-thirds gender rule, and governance structures, require constitutional intervention.
While some leaders view the proposal as pragmatic and cost-effective, critics remain sceptical, questioning the timing and warning that constitutional reform could be used as a political tool ahead of the next election cycle.