Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has strongly criticized former Chief Justices David Maraga and Willy Mutunga, accusing them of engaging in political activism instead of enjoying their retirement in peace.

In a statement posted on his X account on Saturday, June 21, 2025, Kaluma argued that Kenya has put in place generous retirement benefits for top-ranking officials including former presidents, vice presidents, prime ministers, speakers, and chief justices to ensure they remain respected and above political battles.

"Progressive nations maintain dignified retirement provisions so that distinguished leaders can be called upon during national emergencies. That’s why we legislated these generous packages," Kaluma said.

He emphasized that these perks such as lifetime payments amounting to 95% of their final gross salary, diplomatic passports, international health coverage, three state vehicles updated every four years, and multiple well-paid aides are meant to keep retired leaders neutral and available for national guidance, not for street-level activism.

“These individuals enjoy near-full salaries for life, along with travel privileges, health insurance, official vehicles, and an entourage of staff. With such benefits, they should act with the dignity that the country expects in return,” Kaluma stated.

The lawmaker took direct aim at recent activities by Mutunga and Maraga. He accused Mutunga, who recently returned from Tanzania, of engaging in actions he claimed risk destabilizing the nation.

Kaluma also expressed concern over Maraga’s increased public appearances, especially in courtrooms alongside newly admitted advocates, suggesting such actions blur the line between statesmanship and political engagement.

He warned that when former high-ranking officials take part in activism, they risk losing their standing as neutral national advisors, turning instead into partisan figures.

Both former chief justices have remained active in Kenya’s civic space. Mutunga, who led the judiciary from 2011 to 2016, has become a vocal critic of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of backsliding on democracy and weaponizing the criminal justice system to silence critics.

He has taken to the streets in protest, spoken out against police excesses, and published scathing commentaries that challenge the executive's growing power.

Maraga, who succeeded Mutunga and is remembered for his historic 2017 decision to nullify a presidential election, has also become more outspoken on governance issues.

He has warned about declining public confidence in state institutions and called for accountability.

His recent announcement that he will run for president in 2027 has made waves.

He has framed his candidacy as a moral crusade aimed at cleaning up what he describes as a deeply corrupt political system.