Maraga: Ukatiba is Kenya’s path to social and economic rights
By Kiprono Keileb, August 25, 2025Former Chief Justice and presidential hopeful David Maraga has urged Kenyans to embrace the Constitution as the blueprint for securing social and economic rights.
Speaking during a talk show aired by a local television station on Sunday, August 24, 2025, Maraga emphasised that the country’s legal framework holds the solutions to longstanding challenges in healthcare, education, and public welfare.
“If you ask my philosophy, it is Ukatiba, following the constitution. I can cite very many articles that, if they are implemented, will show you that you will provide for social-economic rights, education, and healthcare,” Maraga said. He stressed that the essence of governance is prioritising the welfare of the people, something he refers to as Utu, a human-centred approach to leadership.
Maraga noted that while Kenya has a robust constitution, implementation gaps have hindered progress.
“My philosophy is one of making sure that we mind the welfare of our people, Utu. If we implemented the constitution and ensured we sealed the leakages, then people will get all that,” he said.
Constitution as a Tool for Welfare
During the discussion, Maraga highlighted several constitutional provisions that, if fully enforced, could transform Kenya’s social and economic landscape. He pointed out that the state has a legal obligation to provide access to education, healthcare, and social protection. According to him, consistent follow-through on these mandates would reduce inequalities and empower citizens to live dignified lives.
“The constitution is not just a document; it is a roadmap. When we commit to its principles, we are also committing to the welfare of our people,” Maraga explained. He called for accountability at all levels of government to ensure public resources are used efficiently, noting that corruption and mismanagement continue to deny citizens basic rights.
Sealing the Leakages
Maraga’s argument centred on the idea that the constitution itself provides mechanisms to check mismanagement and promote transparency.
“If we seal the leakages, people will benefit directly from what belongs to them,” he said, urging policymakers and leaders to act decisively.
He concluded by urging Kenyans to hold leaders accountable and demand implementation of constitutional provisions. “Social and economic rights are not abstract ideals; they are obligations. Ukatiba is our path to ensuring these rights become a reality for every Kenyan,” Maraga said.