Speaker Moses Wetangula warns retired Chief Justice’s presence in protests undermines public trust and constitutional order
Nairobi – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has publicly criticized former Chief Justice David Maraga for attending the June 25 protests, arguing that his involvement sent the wrong message to young Kenyans and risked tarnishing the reputation of the Judiciary.
Speaking Saturday during a women’s empowerment event at Matunda Comprehensive School in Likuyani, Kakamega County, Wetang’ula expressed disappointment over Maraga’s presence at the Gen Z-led protests, which began peacefully but later turned violent in parts of Nairobi and other cities.
“His participation in protests that later degenerated into looting and lawlessness not only undermined his dignity but also sent the wrong message to a generation looking up to him for guidance and inspiration,” Wetang’ula said.
His remarks followed a public letter written by Maraga to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on Friday. In the letter, Maraga protested the withdrawal of his official security detail, which included two bodyguards and a driver. He said the officers had served him since his retirement in January 2021.
Maraga demanded their reinstatement, citing provisions of the Retirement Benefits Act that guarantee protection for retired top state officers. The decision to remove his security has sparked political tension, with some lawmakers suggesting further punitive action.
On Thursday, MPs George Murugara and Gladys Shollei threatened to push for the withdrawal of Maraga’s retirement benefits, arguing that a former Chief Justice should not engage in activities that, in their view, compromise state stability.
Wetang’ula echoed those sentiments, without naming Maraga directly in connection with the possible loss of benefits, but emphasized that the Judiciary’s highest-ranking retirees carry a responsibility to uphold the spirit of the law even after leaving office.
The June 25 demonstrations, largely organized by young Kenyans online, called for accountability on state spending, police reform, and job creation. While many rallies were peaceful, clashes with police erupted in central Nairobi, leading to the death of at least 16 people and injuries to more than 400 others, according to Amnesty International.
Security agencies claim that government institutions, including police posts and court buildings, were targeted. Government officials have labeled parts of the protest as coordinated attacks, with Interior CS Murkomen going as far as to describe it as an attempted insurrection.
Maraga has not responded to Wetang’ula’s comments, but sources close to him indicated that his presence at the protest was meant to show solidarity with peaceful demonstrators demanding lawful governance.
The debate over Maraga’s participation has opened a broader conversation about the role of retired leaders in times of civil unrest, particularly when constitutional rights and state power appear to collide.
As questions over police conduct, constitutional freedoms, and political responsibility intensify, Maraga’s case has become a flashpoint in the struggle to define leadership in moments of public crisis.
