Opposition sets October 9 date for People’s Forum to guard 2027 election

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has been appointed as the leader of the People’s Forum for Electoral Preparedness, an initiative that aims to bring together opposition leaders and stakeholders ahead of the 2027 General Election. Maraga expressed his gratitude on Thursday, August 20, 2026, for being asked by his colleagues from the United opposition to take on this role.

He stated that he would carry out his responsibilities "with integrity, with diligence and with fidelity to the Constitution of Kenya." The formation of the People's Forum is part of a larger effort by opposition leaders to mobilize Kenyans and establish structures prior to the 2027 elections. Martha Karua, the leader of the Party of National Unity (PLP), also endorsed the initiative, cautioning against what she described as threats to Kenya's democratic space posed by William Ruto and his associates.

Karua encouraged Kenyans and people of good faith to join the forum, which will be coordinated by the former Chief Justice. The appointment of Maraga places him at the forefront of an opposition-led initiative focused on electoral preparedness, voter mobilization, and ensuring the integrity of the 2027 electoral process. Recent months have seen Maraga becoming more politically active, announcing his intention to run for the presidency in 2027.

This appointment is expected to further fuel discussions within the opposition about coordinating their activities for the upcoming presidential contest, including determining if opposition parties and leaders can agree on a unified strategy or candidate.