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Former Chief Justice David Maraga has issued a stern condemnation of the violence, abductions, and economic mismanagement that plagued Kenya in 2024, urging leaders and citizens alike to recommit to constitutional values and justice in 2025.
In a heartfelt New Year message, Maraga highlighted the widespread suffering caused by killings, maimings, and unlawful detentions of young Kenyans, calling for immediate action to address these injustices.
The former CJ said that this year has not been easy for many families.
The killing, maiming, and abduction of young Kenyans has put to serious test our institutions. It demands a moral response. If we are truly a people sworn to the sanctity of life and the dignity of every citizen, then we must stand bold in the truth of our Constitution.
The retired Chief Justice condemned the violent tactics employed during the year’s political unrest, including the national protests dubbed "Gen Z," which saw widespread demonstrations against economic mismanagement, impunity, and government unresponsiveness.
Maraga emphasised the resilience of the Kenyan people, who, despite adversity, have actively demanded accountability from public institutions. He reminded Kenyans of the promise of the 2010 Constitution, describing it as a transformative vision for a just and equitable society.
"The cries of pain and outrage we saw this year were sparked by the erosion of basic dignity and economic mismanagement," Maraga noted, urging immediate reforms in critical sectors like education and health. He also called for economic restructuring to create decent jobs and ensure a fair and sustainable tax regime.
Abuse of power
In a pointed critique, Maraga underscored the responsibility of public officebearers to prevent the abuse of power.
Let me be clear. The responsibility of ensuring that instruments of power are not abused lies with office bearers.
As the country approaches 2025, Maraga urged Kenyans to reflect on their collective values and recommit to governance, ethics, and justice. He also called for accountability for those responsible for the pain inflicted on Kenyans in 2024.
"Let us determine that 2025 is the year that these values become an inseparable part of us. It must also be the year of accountability for those who caused so much pain to Kenyans in 2024," he asserted.
Maraga concluded his message with a wish for unity and prosperity in the New Year, reaffirming his faith in the resilience and potential of the Kenyan people.