Maraga launches United Green Movement as his party for 2027 race
By Paulette Mboga, October 2, 2025Former Chief Justice David Maraga has officially announced that he will run for president on the United Green Movement (UGM) Party ticket in the 2027 General Election.
The UGM Party confirmed the move in a statement on X on Thursday, October 2, 2025, saying, “The UGM party has today officially welcomed Hon. David Maraga as a founding member and the party’s presidential flag bearer.”
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This announcement marks Maraga’s entry into active politics, four years after leaving the judiciary.
Maraga, who served as Kenya’s Chief Justice from 2016 to 2021, will now attempt to transition from judicial leadership to political leadership. His move is expected to shake up the political landscape as he becomes the latest high-profile figure to declare interest in the country’s top seat.
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Maraga’s appeal to youth
Even before his announcement, Maraga had been sending signals of his interest in national leadership. He had previously urged young people to take charge of the country’s future through active participation in elections.
“I would like to urge young people to take advantage of this time to register as voters and to spread the word about this exercise,” Maraga said earlier.
“The future belongs to you, and you must take charge of deciding how that future looks through the upcoming elections, both by-elections as well as the 2027 general elections.”
With this call, Maraga positioned himself as a leader keen on mobilising the youth, who make up the largest voting bloc in the country. His entry into the presidential race is expected to focus heavily on issues affecting young people and governance reforms.
Maraga’s candidature under the UGM Party also introduces a new dynamic in the race, as the party has previously struggled to gain national attention. His decision to run on their ticket is seen as a strategic move that could give the party visibility while also providing Maraga with a platform to present his agenda.
The former Chief Justice now joins a growing list of politicians and leaders who have declared their interest in succeeding President William Ruto in 2027 as campaigns begin to take shape.