Maraga Honors Heroes, Urges Kenyans to Defend Katiba
Maraga reserved special commendation for the Gen Z generation. He commended their energy, boldness, and commitment to protecting democratic ideals.
Maraga also referred to the ongoing #tekelezakatiba campaign, a call for the people to call for complete adherence to constitutional provisions. Photo/ Courtesy
By Juliet Jerotich
Former Chief Justice David Maraga marked Katiba Day with a message of remembrance and encouragement. He paid tribute to Kenyans who toiled in actualizing the 2010 Constitution, which continues to be viewed as one of the most progressive charters in the African region.
Maraga described the day as a day to commemorate those who lost their lives in the battle for reforms. He termed them as real heroes, adding that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
In his Facebook update released on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, he also praised Kenyans who have continued to defend the Constitution since its passage in 2010. He reminded citizens that the document is still under threat of being undermined by leaders who are always looking for ways to water down its power. Due to this, he urged vigilance and civic engagement from every Kenyan.
During his speech, Maraga reserved special commendation for the Gen Z generation. He commended their energy, boldness, and commitment to protecting democratic ideals. In his opinion, young people have shown boldness in demanding accountability and respect for the constitution, even when harmed.
“Some of your colleagues paid the ultimate price,” Maraga said. He blamed the state for targeting some of them, saying their fatalities expose a regime willing to exchange lives to protect corruption.
He appealed to Kenyans never to forget such sacrifices and re-dedicate themselves to protecting the Constitution. He also underscored the importance of putting into practice the 2010 Constitution to its foundation. To him, this arrangement of law remains a very effective shield against abuse of power and poor governance.
Maraga also referred to the ongoing #tekelezakatiba campaign, a call for the people to call for complete adherence to constitutional provisions. He further stated that without people’s participation, the Constitution would be undermined by power.
His message struck a chord with a vast number of Kenyans. It paid tribute to the past fighters with a recognition of the youth shaping the present day. By convening them, Maraga reminded the nation that the duty to protect democracy is in the hands of every generation.
As Kenyans celebrated Katiba Day, his message was a wake-up call. They called for unity, courage, and sustained action to ensure that the Constitution stayed a living document of justice, equality, and accountability.
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