“Church Should Not Demonise Politics,” Presidential Hopeful Maraga Declares in Kisii
Former Chief Justice and presidential hopeful David Maraga
Former Chief Justice and presidential hopeful David Maraga has urged the church not to demonise politics, saying leadership remains a critical tool in addressing the many challenges facing the country.
Maraga, who has already declared interest in the presidency ahead of the 2027 General Election, spoke during a Sabbath service at Kisii Central Seventh-day Adventist Church where he fellowshipped with congregants and challenged Christians to actively participate in governance.
He was accompanied by former Kisii County Woman Representative Sally Mary Otara.
“The church should not demonise politics because leadership determines the direction a country takes. We need leaders with integrity, honesty and compassion for the people.I also want to go to heaven,” Maraga said.
The former Chief Justice noted that politics directly influences the lives of citizens through policies and development decisions, adding that religious institutions have a responsibility to help shape ethical and accountable leadership.
“Am a church elder with strong convictions that I have what it takes to lead this country to the right direction,”he told the hundreds of congregants.
Kenya, he stated ,was facing numerous challenges, including corruption, unemployment, the high cost of living and declining public trust in institutions, which require principled leaders to address.
Maraga challenged Christians and young people to stop shying away from politics, warning that abandoning leadership spaces leaves room for individuals lacking integrity to take over.
“If good people avoid politics, then the country risks being led by people who do not have the interests of citizens at heart,” he added.
He further called on leaders to uphold the Constitution, protect the rule of law and promote national unity instead of engaging in divisive politics.
Maraga said the church remains a critical moral voice in society and should guide the country towards justice, accountability and good governance.
His remarks come amid heightened political activities across the country as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.