Busia: Former Chief Justice and leader of the United Green Movement (UGM) Party, David Maraga, has criticized the government over what he terms as unreasonably high fuel costs. Speaking during the official opening of the UGM office in Busia, Maraga noted that the fuel cost in the country is much higher than in other East African countries, despite Kenya’s short distance in transporting the commodity.
According to Kenya News Agency, Maraga pointed out that fuel used in Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi passes through Busia, yet these countries have lower fuel costs compared to Kenya. He attributed the high costs to the taxes imposed by the Kenyan government on fuel, noting that VAT was increased from eight to sixteen percent by the current administration.
Maraga further criticized the government for deviating from a government-to-government arrangement for fuel purchases, opting instead to use private companies. He urged local residents to register as voters and be prepared to vote in the 2027 General elections to regain their liberation, assuring them that if elected, he would work to secure this liberation.
In addition to addressing fuel costs, Maraga highlighted Kenya’s borrowing situation, revealing that the country has borrowed more than Sh12 trillion, with Sh7 trillion from local borrowing. He warned that this borrowing trend has led to excessively high bank interest rates on loans for ordinary Kenyans. He blamed this on misappropriation of public funds, citing the Auditor General’s report, which states that the office of the Deputy President spends at least Sh8 million daily on doubtful activities.
The UGM Party has already opened 36 offices across the country, indicating its growing presence and influence in Kenya’s political landscape.
