Life of the Former Chief Justice

David Maraga

"A man of integrity for a time that demands character."

Early Life & Education

A Foundation in Law

David Kenani Maraga was born 12 January 1951 in Nyamira County, Kenya. He was the 14th Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya from October 2016 until his retirement in January 2021.

He achieved his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi; holds a post-graduate diploma awarded by the Kenya School of Law; and obtained a Master of Laws from the University of Nairobi.

David Maraga is celebrated for a trailblazing judicial career marked by landmark achievements in integrity, reform, and constitutionalism. Under his leadership, the judiciary introduced major reforms, and he personally authored over 1,250 Court of Appeal judgments.

A Legacy of Courage

Landmark Achievements

Annulled the 2017 Presidential Election

The first such ruling in Africa, demonstrating unmatched judicial courage and independence.

Defended Constitutional Accountability

Advised the President to dissolve Parliament over its failure to meet the two-thirds gender rule, setting a powerful precedent for legal fidelity.

Modernised the Judiciary

Introduced digital case e-filing, the Judiciary Committee on Elections, and cleared significant case backlogs.

Expanded Access to Justice

Strengthened access through mobile courts in remote areas and pushed for internal anti-corruption systems to increase transparency and accountability.

Beyond the Bench

A Continuing Commitment

Post-retirement, Maraga has remained active in civic life, mentoring youth, promoting ethical leadership, and speaking on democracy and governance. His unwavering commitment to the rule of law, personal integrity, and empathetic leadership has cemented his legacy as one of Kenya's most principled and effective judicial reformers.

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