Former Chief Justice David Maraga was on Sunday urged by an MCA to drop his presidential bid and instead back former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.

Nyamira Majority Leader and Rigoma Ward Representative Nyambega Gisesa told Maraga the former CS was more popular.

After being handed the microphone by Nyamira Assembly Speaker Enock Okero, Nyambega, who is also the national chairman of Dr Matiang’i’s political party—the United Progressive Alliance (UPA)—told Maraga to cede ground for Matiang’i.

“Our elder Mr Maraga, we have been together in the past, but for now, we are standing with Dr Matiang’i. As Kisii people, let’s not sink into confusion over who our presidential candidate will be as the Gusii Community.

“Whom do you choose for 2027…Maraga or Matiang’i?” Nyambega asked mourners.

Nyambega finished his short speech by urging respect for other leaders, but without any specific reference to anyone.

When he rose to address the mourners, Maraga, in his humble demeanour, consoled the family, which he said was close to him.

He told Nyambega to be calm and wait for the campaign season. This was after he summoned the MCA to the dais and held him by the shoulder with his right hand as he addressed him.

“I have not come here for a political contest, and we are not in one. It should not be misconstrued that I am in any way trying to undermine my brother Matiang’i. When the time comes, the matters will sort themselves. The waters will settle on their own. And when that right time comes, Kenyans will have a say,” Maraga said.

However, the former CJ could not let the MCA sit down without reflecting on the unresolved leadership wrangles at the Nyamira Assembly that have affected service delivery.

“I have been around for three days now, and the people of Nyamira are crying. Why can’t you (MCAs) sit down and work for them? The people want work done… as majority leader brings them together and has talks in the best interest of the Nyamira people,” said Maraga.