The former Chief Justice said the exercise is not about politics alone, but about strengthening democracy by ensuring more Kenyans take part in choosing their leaders.
Speaking to residents during meetings held across different parts of the coastal city, Maraga emphasized that voting starts with registration.
He noted that many eligible citizens, especially young people, often complain about leadership but fail to register as voters.
According to him, change cannot happen if people stay away from the electoral process.
Maraga said his decision to start the civic engagement drive in Mombasa was deliberate.
He described the region as an important part of Kenya’s democratic journey, with a large population of young people who can shape the country’s future if they fully participate.
He urged residents to see voter registration as a civic duty, not a favour to any politician.
During his address, Maraga avoided making campaign promises. Instead, he focused on the importance of constitutional values, rule of law, and active citizenship.
He reminded Kenyans that their power lies in their vote and that registering as a voter is the first step in holding leaders accountable.
The presidential aspirant also raised concern about voter apathy, saying many Kenyans feel frustrated and disconnected from politics due to unfulfilled promises and poor leadership.
However, he warned that staying away from the ballot only benefits bad leadership. “If good people do nothing, nothing will change,” he told the crowd.
Local leaders and civil society groups who attended the meetings welcomed the initiative.
They said civic education and voter registration campaigns are needed, especially in urban areas where many eligible voters remain unregistered.
Some youth leaders in Mombasa said Maraga’s message resonated with young people who want clean and issue-based politics.
Maraga encouraged parents, community leaders, and religious institutions to support voter registration efforts.
He said civic responsibility should be taught at home, in schools, and in places of worship so that participation in elections becomes a culture rather than an event that happens once every five years.
He also called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure voter registration centres are accessible and the process is simple and transparent.
According to Maraga, trust in elections begins with a fair and open registration process that gives every eligible Kenyan an equal chance to participate.