Former Chief Justice David Maraga has openly criticized President William Ruto for assenting to several controversial bills during a time of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Maraga described the president’s actions as “insensitive and disrespectful,” arguing that it demonstrated a disregard for the emotional state of the nation and the democratic principles Odinga had fought to uphold.
Speaking in Nairobi, Maraga expressed his deep concern over the decision to sign eight contentious bills while the country was still grieving. He noted that this move not only undermined the solemn period of mourning but also raised serious constitutional and ethical questions about the government’s priorities. “At a time when Kenyans are reflecting on the legacy of a leader who fought for democracy and the rule of law, the government is pushing through laws that threaten those very principles,” Maraga said.
Among the most disputed legislations is the amended Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, which Maraga warned could be used to stifle freedom of expression and dissent. He explained that the law grants the government broad authority to shut down social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok without judicial approval. “This law lacks proper checks and balances. It gives the executive excessive control over digital spaces, endangering the freedom of speech guaranteed by our Constitution,” he emphasized.
Maraga also raised alarm over the revised Privatization Act, which he claimed gives the President and Treasury Cabinet Secretary power to sell public assets without parliamentary oversight or public transparency. “Kenyans will not know who is buying their national assets. This is a dangerous precedent that invites corruption and abuse of power,” he cautioned.
The former Chief Justice further criticized Parliament for what he described as a lack of genuine public participation in the legislative process. He argued that citizens and key stakeholders were largely ignored, making the laws unconstitutional and illegitimate. “Public participation is not a formality; it is a constitutional requirement. These laws are null and void because they were not passed in accordance with the Constitution,” he asserted.
Maraga also condemned the government’s financial conduct, accusing it of excessive borrowing and mismanagement of public funds. He pointed out that Kenya is currently borrowing billions weekly, yet ordinary citizens continue to suffer from high living costs and poor service delivery. “We are mortgaging our children’s future. Kenyans must question who benefits from this unsustainable borrowing,” he said.
The remarks have sparked widespread debate across the country, with many Kenyans echoing Maraga’s concerns about the erosion of democratic values and constitutional order. His statements have added to growing pressure on President Ruto’s administration to uphold transparency, accountability, and respect for due process.
Maraga concluded his address by urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and defend the constitutional freedoms that many, including Raila Odinga, had dedicated their lives to protect. “We cannot allow our hard-won freedoms to be quietly buried under political convenience,” he said firmly.
The controversy surrounding the new laws and their timing continues to dominate public discourse, marking a tense period for the Ruto administration as it faces scrutiny over governance, integrity, and national unity.
Image by The Star
