Former Chief Justice and 2027 presidential hopeful David Maraga has warned politicians against promoting zoning arrangements, saying the practice threatens democracy and fuels tribal divisions. Speaking during a tour of Siaya County, Maraga argued that zoning limits voter freedom by allowing political elites to decide who should contest in certain regions, instead of leaving the choice to wananchi.


Maraga criticized the growing push for political agreements where coalition partners avoid competing in each other’s strongholds, saying such deals undermine merit-based leadership and lock out capable candidates. According to him, political parties should be free to operate across the country without restrictions based on ethnicity or regional dominance.


“When you go zoning, it encourages tribalism and ethnic balkanization and that is not good for our country,” Maraga said, warning that the trend could reverse democratic gains made over the years.


His remarks come amid heated debate over zoning proposals linked to possible coalition talks ahead of the 2027 General Election. Some leaders have defended zoning as a way of avoiding “friendly fire” among allies, but Maraga insists it weakens accountability and denies voters meaningful competition.


The former Chief Justice also cautioned against using young people as tools in political violence, urging leaders to focus on issue-based politics rather than divisive strategies.


His statement adds to growing scrutiny over the zoning debate, which is increasingly shaping Kenya’s evolving political landscape.