This archive report was first published on 11 November 2019.
Chief Justice David Maraga's reputation as a man of strong faith has been well-documented. His decision to observe the Sabbath from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset has been a source of admiration, particularly in a country where public service often comes with its own set of temptations.
However, it appears that Maraga's commitment to his faith has not extended to his role as the head of the judiciary. His willingness to overlook the trappings of office has led to his downfall, with the government he has served treating him with disdain.
As the CJ, Maraga has had unfettered access to the President and State House, big cars, and a full motorcade. However, it seems that he has not used these privileges wisely, and his decision to attend government functions, even when he should have stayed away, has been seen as an attempt to curry favor with the Executive.
Maraga's people, the AbaGusii, hail from the same roots as the AbaLuhya, and among the many folktales of the AbaLuhya is the story of the hyena that ate his protector. The story goes that a woman took pity on a hyena and hid it in her house, only to be eaten by the very creature she had tried to protect.
It seems that Maraga has learned nothing from this tale. His decision to ignore the trappings of office and his willingness to overlook the government's disdain for him has led to his downfall. As the CJ, he should have been a symbol of independence and integrity, but instead, he has become a laughing stock.
