Chief Justice David Maraga's appearance at a roadside rally in Kisii on Wednesday continues to elicit sharp reactions from within elites with Prof Makau Mutua becoming the latest leader to join the debate.
In a photo widely shared on social media forums, Maraga is seen leaning near DP William Ruto's vehicle, probably lining up for introduction with other leaders.
And the US based don who has declared intentions to run for president, said Maraga may have succumbed to pressure by executive, adding that he had been turned to a cheerleader.
"It was a sad day for the office of the Chief Justice of Kenya yesterday. The office of the CJ isn’t — and can’t be turned into — a political cheerleader’s job," he wrote on Twitter.
Despite the escalating criticism, the Chief Justice, who met a number of ministers on Friday, is yet to offer any clarification. He had joined President Uhuru Kenyatta in launching of the newly renovated Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital.
On Thursday, Senators led by Minority Leader James Orengo castigated Maraga, terming his attendance in Uhuru's function as 'bad manners'
And Prof Mutua, a staunch supporter of ODM leader Raila Odinga, also said his decision to run for president is recorded in his latest book; Kenya's Quest for Democracy.
"You can find out why I may run for PORK in 2022 from my book — Kenya’s Quest for Democracy: Taming Leviathan (2008)," he added over his quest for presidency," he said.