Justice David Maraga Biography: Career, Family and Education

In the annals of Kenya’s judiciary, few names command the respect and admiration that David Maraga does. Known for his unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and constitutionalism, Maraga carved a unique legacy as the country’s 14th Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court.

Born in 1949 in Nyamira County, in the heart of Kisii land, David Maraga rose from humble beginnings to occupy the highest judicial office in Kenya. A devout Seventh-day Adventist, Maraga’s life and career have been shaped by his deep-rooted faith, discipline, and a resolute moral compass.

Legal Journey

Maraga studied law at the University of Nairobi, earning his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree before proceeding to the Kenya School of Law. He was admitted to the bar in 1978 and practised law for over 25 years, building a reputation for thoroughness and integrity.

In 2003, he was appointed as a High Court judge, marking the beginning of his judicial journey. He later served in the Court of Appeal and became known for landmark rulings and his consistent calls for judicial independence.

His moment on the national stage came in October 2016, when he was appointed Chief Justice of Kenya following a competitive recruitment process by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

A Defining Legacy

Justice Maraga made history in September 2017, when under his leadership, the Supreme Court nullified the presidential election – a first in Africa. In the face of intense political pressure, he stood firm, declaring the election “not conducted in accordance with the Constitution.”

That ruling cemented his place in Kenyan history as a fearless defender of constitutionalism, even when doing so invited criticism and political backlash. His stance earned him admiration both locally and internationally as a symbol of judicial courage.

Throughout his tenure, Maraga was vocal about the need for judicial independence, adequate funding for the judiciary, and respect for the rule of law. He did not shy away from calling out executive overreach, famously advising President Uhuru Kenyatta to dissolve Parliament in 2020 for failing to enact the two-thirds gender rule — a move grounded in constitutional law.

Personal Life

A family man, Maraga is married to Yucabeth Nyaboke, and together they have children. His life is defined by discipline and devotion. As an Adventist, he once famously declared during vetting that he would never work on the Sabbath, even if it meant missing a presidential election ruling — a stand that earned him both praise and curiosity.

Retirement and Legacy

Justice Maraga retired on January 12, 2021, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70. In retirement, he has continued to speak on legal and governance matters and was later appointed to chair a task force on police and prison reforms by President William Ruto in 2022.

Justice David Maraga remains a towering figure in Kenya’s democratic evolution. His tenure set a high standard for judicial leadership — one anchored in faith, principle, and an unyielding belief in the supremacy of the Constitution.

“Let the Constitution be our guiding star,” Maraga once said. For many Kenyans, his name will forever be synonymous with that very creed.