- Former Chief Justice David Maraga says his police protection was withdrawn after he joined public protests on June 25.
- He wrote to the Inspector General and the Interior CS, saying the move was sudden and done without his knowledge.
- Maraga believes the decision could be linked to his open criticism of the police and his presence at the protests.
- He now demands that the government restore his security, citing legal entitlement from his past office.
David Maraga, who once led Kenya’s judiciary, claims his official security team has been removed. The former CJ says this action came right after he participated in the June 25 demonstrations that honoured victims of last year’s violence.
In a formal letter to IG Douglas Kanja and Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, Maraga disclosed that on June 26, the officers assigned to him were told to report back to their respective stations, leaving him without security.
Maraga detailed how the withdrawal process began subtly. One of his officers was told not to show up for duty on the protest day but instead go make an entry in the firearms register, which seemed like routine paperwork.
However, on arriving, the officer was allegedly informed of an unplanned training session. By the next day, Maraga says the rest of his guards were ordered back to their units, without any formal briefing from him.
The former CJ voiced concern that the withdrawal was done without proper communication. He noted that in his experience, security training or changes to his protection detail usually came with official notice or prior consultation.
He now wants the Interior Ministry and police leadership to explain the abrupt move and restore his protection, which he says is a right granted by law due to his former position.
Maraga strongly hinted that his security may have been pulled back because he marched alongside youth and families during the June 25 protest. The demonstration aimed to remember those killed or disappeared during earlier unrest.
He said it was worrying if his involvement in peaceful public action was being used as a reason to punish or intimidate him.
Former CJ Calls for Respect of Rights
In the same letter, Maraga reminded authorities that the Constitution grants certain protections and facilitation to former state officers. He said the Police Service must not act politically or selectively when it comes to providing security.
Citing legal grounds, he demanded an immediate return of his protection officers and warned against any retaliation for his public statements or past service.
Maraga’s presence at the protest hasn’t gone unnoticed. Some allies of President Ruto have openly criticised his involvement, questioning his impartiality and accusing him of fueling public dissent.
Still, many Kenyans have praised the former CJ for standing with citizens during a time of national reflection.
