Onyonka: Why it's Matiang’i, not Maraga’s moment

By Newsflash Correspondent

The potential presidential candidature of former Chief Justice David Maraga is stirring political debate, with Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka leading the charge against his bid.

Onyonka, a key supporter of former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, argues that Maraga lacks the leadership qualities needed to address Kenya’s pressing challenges.

Onyonka dismisses Maraga’s suitability

In an interview with Newsflash Kenya, Onyonka poured cold water on Maraga’s presidential ambitions, asserting that the retired CJ is not well-versed in the country’s deep-rooted problems.

“I think Maraga does not understand the depth of problems we have as a country. We cannot hand over leadership to him simply because he nullified a presidential election,” said Onyonka.

According to the senator, moral uprightness alone does not qualify Maraga to lead Kenya.

“Believe me, there is more to politics than simply saying that you are not corrupt. Running a country requires a tough and decisive leader like Matiang’i,” he added.

Maraga gains support from Gen Z

Despite the criticism, Maraga has garnered significant backing, particularly from Generation Z—Kenya’s youngest and most vocal voters. They view him as a symbol of integrity and change.

Maraga himself remains confident in his candidacy.

“At the end of the day, it is the people who will decide. Just relax, wait, and in due course, you will make up your mind on whether or not I’m a state project,” he stated.

Is Maraga a sponsored candidate?

Onyonka has gone further to suggest that Maraga is being used to undermine Matiang’i’s chances.

“Look at who is with him—government operatives! Look at all the government bloggers attacking Matiang’i. Who are the people he is associating with at his functions?” Onyonka questioned.

However, Maraga has categorically denied these claims, insisting that his bid is independent and that the final decision rests with the voters.

Matiang’i’s leadership record

Onyonka lauded Matiang’i’s leadership credentials, highlighting his past performance as a Cabinet Secretary.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka in a panel discussion on Citizen TV.Photo/Citizen Digital

“It is public knowledge that Matiang’i showed exemplary leadership during his tenure in various ministries. From Education to Interior, he made remarkable strides in service delivery,” Onyonka said.

Rift with Raila Odinga?

Onyonka refuted claims that their support for Matiang’i signals a fallout with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, who recently formed a pact with President William Ruto.

“We are certain that Raila will not be running for the presidency this time around. Because he has been our candidate before, we have now settled on Dr. Matiang’i, who enjoys support across the country,” he explained.

Jubilee endorses Matiang’i

Matiang’i’s political ambitions received a boost after Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni announced him as the party’s presidential flag bearer. Kioni confirmed that Matiang’i had formally expressed interest in the country’s top seat.

“Matiang’i just expressed a desire, and it is the work of the party to market its candidate across the country,” Kioni stated.

According to Kioni, it is crucial for a party of Jubilee’s stature to have a clear presidential candidate.

“As a party the size of Jubilee, it’s not in our best interest to operate without a presidential candidate. When individuals are willing to offer leadership, they should be given a fair chance,” he added.

Matiang’i to make public statement soon

Kioni also revealed that Matiang’i would soon address the public about his political plans.

“Matiang’i is the one who reached out, and he will be speaking about it himself in the coming days. We won’t have to wait too long. When he feels the time is right, he will make his position clear,” Kioni stated.