Former Chief Justice David Maraga has claimed that the renewed push to amend the Constitution is intended to pave the way for an extension of the presidential term.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 29, Maraga alleged that senior government officials are advocating for a referendum under the pretext of a constitutional moment, while their underlying objective is to prolong President William Ruto’s tenure.
Maraga further accused the administration of threatening the integrity of the Constitution and warned Kenyans to remain vigilant.
Maraga Claims Fresh Constitution Amendment Push Aims to Extend Presidential Term. Photo: Courtesy.
He also criticised Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s calls for a referendum, describing them as a blatant disregard for the Constitution.
Maraga stated that Kenya is not facing a constitutional crisis, but rather challenges with implementation and a lack of integrity.
He highlighted that the real constitutional milestone is ensuring that existing laws are fully respected and applied, pointing to issues such as the two-thirds gender rule, full funding of the Judiciary, and the protection of the Bill of Rights as areas where the current administration has fallen short.
He emphasized that Kenyans are seeking the proper functioning of the 2010 Constitution rather than a referendum.
To this end, the former Chief Justice announced the launch of the Ukatiba Movement, which is dedicated to upholding the Constitution, safeguarding citizens from an overextended bureaucracy, and ensuring that power remains with the people.
This follows Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s call for a constitutional review, 15 years after the 2010 Constitution was promulgated.
In a statement on Friday, December 26, Mudavadi warned that the missed deadline for reviewing electoral boundaries could trigger a legal crisis and potentially affect the 2027 general election.
He proposed holding a referendum alongside the 2027 polls to address the issue.
