Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has strongly criticised former Chief Justice David Maraga after he launched a campaign website to raise funds and rally support for his 2027 presidential run.
Speaking on Saturday, July 19, Cherargei dismissed Maraga’s move, saying that asking ordinary Kenyans to finance a presidential campaign was unrealistic and went against the usual political practices in Kenya.
Through a statement shared on his X account, the Senator recalled similar advice he had given to Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who also plans to run for the presidency in 2027. Cherargei had warned that any serious presidential campaign in Kenya requires a budget of at least Ksh7 billion.
“Just like I advised my brother Senator Omtatah, running a presidential campaign in this country needs no less than seven billion shillings,” said Cherargei. “Retired Chief Justice Maraga must understand that fundraisers cannot even sustain campaigns for a Member of County Assembly (MCA), let alone a presidential race.”
He went on to criticize the whole idea of politicians seeking donations from citizens, implying that such a move only reveals a lack of preparedness. Cherargei, who is a loyal supporter of President William Ruto, brought up the case of Morara Kebaso, who recently failed to raise funds to fuel his car despite seeking public help.
“If someone like Morara Kebaso couldn’t even raise enough money for fuel, what makes Maraga think Kenyans will fund an entire presidential campaign? Is he really looking for leadership or just trying to collect money? Which one is it?” he asked sarcastically.
Maraga had launched the fundraising website on Friday, July 18. On the site, he appealed to Kenyans both in the country and abroad to support his campaign financially. The donation options start from as little as Ksh100 and go up to Ksh50,000, with donors allowed to key in any custom amount they wish to contribute.
For supporters living in the diaspora, contributions begin at $5 (approximately Ksh647) and can go up to $25 (around Ksh3,237), also with the option of entering a custom figure.
In addition to financial support, the former Chief Justice urged Kenyans to get involved by volunteering their time, skills, or ideas to help shape the campaign.
Maraga had earlier revealed that he personally would only be able to contribute between Ksh1 million and Ksh2 million toward the campaign, stressing that he would heavily rely on the goodwill of Kenyans to bring his vision to life.
He officially announced his candidacy for the presidency on Wednesday, June 18, listing the fight against corruption and police brutality as his key priorities if elected.
Despite his background in the judiciary, Maraga’s entry into politics has already sparked debate, with many questioning whether he has the financial and political muscle to compete in Kenya’s rough political landscape.
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