Shunning Tycoons: David Maraga’s Strategy to Fund 2027 Campaign Through Citizens

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has appealed to Kenyans to support his 2027 presidential bid through public donations, stating that he aims to run a people-funded campaign aimed at resetting, rebuilding, and restoring the country’s governance systems.

In a message shared through his official campaign platform, Maraga called on ordinary citizens to take action by contributing any amount they can towards the campaign. He emphasised that grassroots contributions would transform the initiative into a collective national effort and reinforce accountability to the public.

“If my campaign is funded by donations from you, the everyday Kenyan, then it becomes our campaign, and I will be accountable to you,” the message reads.

People-Driven Campaign Strategy

Maraga, who served as Kenya’s 14th Chief Justice between 2016 and 2021, officially launched his presidential fundraising platform ahead of the 2027 General Election under the slogan “Reset, Restore, and Rebuild Kenya.”

Supporters can contribute small amounts via the website and mobile money services such as M-Pesa, in line with Maraga’s plan to rely on broad public support rather than wealthy donors.

According to campaign details, the funds are expected to support:

Grassroots mobilisation and community outreach
Campaign events and town hall meetings
Digital communication and nationwide organising
Volunteer recruitment and voter engagement programmes

Early Support from Kenyans

Reports indicate that Maraga’s campaign fundraising efforts gained early traction after launch, with hundreds of thousands of shillings raised within the first 48 hours and additional contributions coming from Kenyans in the diaspora.

In a later update, the campaign disclosed that more than Sh7.7 million had been raised from over 1,800 contributors, with a significant portion coming from Kenyans living abroad.

Maraga has pledged transparency in handling the funds and promised that every contribution will be accounted for, noting that any surplus resources would be redirected to a public cause.

Focus on Citizen Participation

The fundraising appeal is part of Maraga’s broader strategy to build a citizen-driven political movement anchored on constitutionalism, accountability, and public participation in governance.

Through the campaign website and M-Pesa paybill, Kenyans are encouraged to donate any amount and participate in shaping the campaign, which Maraga says is intended to reflect the voice and interests of ordinary citizens across the country.

The initiative positions the former Chief Justice among early contenders preparing for the 2027 presidential race, with his campaign centred on public involvement and grassroots support.

By Nancy achieng