UGM opens Wajir office as Maraga steps up nationwide 2027 campaign

Prof Mkawasi Mcharo-executive director presidential campaign /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

The United Green Movement party has opened a county office in Wajir as part of its nationwide drive to strengthen grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 general election.

UGM presidential flagbearer and former Chief Justice David Maraga said the Wajir office forms part of a broader outreach strategy aimed at engaging citizens, listening to their concerns and offering alternative leadership focused on accountability and development.

Maraga said he had been deeply encouraged by the overwhelming support he has received from Kenyans, noting the reception affirms his belief the country is ready for change.

The former Chief Justice was accompanied by a team of UGM officials and candidates contesting various elective seats.

“I am here as the leader of UGM and as a presidential candidate for 2027. Things are not going well in our country, and that is why we are travelling across Kenya to listen to wananchi and change how things are done,” Maraga said.

He said similar concerns about governance, corruption and poor service delivery have been raised during his visits to the Coast, Rift Valley and northern Kenya, pointing to a widespread desire for change.

He hit out at those who have dismissed his candidature, saying they are in for a rude shock.

“I would not be doing all of this, going around the country to all 47 counties, driving long distances, if this were just a public relations exercise. We are serious. We want to change the governance systems of this country,” Maraga said.

He said northern Kenya possesses immense potential that can be unlocked through targeted investment in critical sectors, particularly water, infrastructure and market access.

“This region has great potential. What is needed are a few key projects, especially water for communities and infrastructure that will enable people to improve their livelihoods,” Maraga said.

He emphasised the importance of improving road connectivity in the region and linking Northern Kenya to neighbouring Ethiopia, saying better transport networks would open up new markets and stimulate economic growth.

“If roads are opened up to Ethiopia, it will create markets we have not been able to access before,” Maraga said.

“Northern Kenya has been marginalised since colonial times, and even after Independence there has been no meaningful development. The constitution gives us the tools to correct this.”

He assured residents a UGM-led government would prioritise inclusive development to ensure all regions benefit equally from national resources.

The former Chief Justice urged young people to register as voters and actively participate in the 2027 general election, saying sustainable change can only be achieved through the ballot.

“I encourage the youth to register and vote in 2027 so we can bring the development our people need,” he said.

UGM co-organising secretary Aden Bute said the party’s mission is to rally residents to acquire ID cards and register as voters, noting that good leadership begins with civic participation.

“Our country is yearning for good leadership, and that can only be realised if Kenyans register as voters and elect leaders of integrity. In Maraga, we have a leader who can truly transform this country for the better,” he said.

Wajir county UGM party coordinator Amina Malim said she was proud to be associated with the party, which she described as a strong advocate for accountability and the responsible use of public resources.

She said although the youth have shown courage in holding leaders accountable, voter apathy remains a major challenge during elections.