Maraga Criticizes Government over Rising Cost of living
By Emmanuel Jumaah
Former Chief Justice David Maraga who's also the partly leader of the United Green Movement (UGM), has sharply criticized the government over the deteriorating economic situation, citing the rising cost of living driven by increased fuel prices.
Speaking during the launch of the party’s office in Busia County, Maraga said the continued rise in fuel costs has triggered a significant increase in the prices of essential goods, placing a heavy burden on many Kenyans. He also pointed to the increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 8%to 16%, describing it as a major factor worsening the financial strain on households.
‘Kenyans can see the state our country is in—everything is going wrong. The economy has completely deteriorated. Just the other day, we saw fuel prices rise, and now the cost of everything is extremely high. All this is due to the heavy taxes the government has imposed on fuel. VAT was 8%, and now it has been increased to 16%, Even if they reduce it back to 8%, they will not have done anything meaningful.’” ~ David Maraga.
He further expressed concern over fuel pricing disparities in the region, noting that despite fuel being transported through the Busia border to neighboring countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, prices in those countries remain lower than in Kenya. He termed the situation illogical, arguing that countries located further away would ordinarily be expected to have higher prices due to transport costs.
‘Here in Busia, you know that the fuel used in Uganda passes through here, the fuel used in Burundi passes through here, and the same applies to Rwanda. Yet in all those countries, fuel is cheaper than it is here. In Kenya, prices are higher than in those countries. We were told this fuel is procured through government-to-government arrangements, supplied by other countries through their state agencies. But here at home, instead of using institutions like the Kenya Pipeline or National Oil, private companies were brought in—and that is why fuel prices are so high.’” ~ David Maraga
The UGM leader also criticized what he described as the misuse of public resources by senior government officials, saying such practices are contributing to the country’s economic decline. He called on Kenyans to support his party, stating that UGM is committed to delivering positive change through policies focused on the welfare of all citizens.
‘The Deputy President is spending about 8 million shillings a day, moving around the country by helicopter. There are many other areas where public money is being misused, which is why citizens’ resources are being wasted and not benefiting the people. We are urging Kenyans to register and vote so that next year we can have the power to cast a vote for liberation. We must free ourselves. And I want to assure you that if you elect me, we will work together to liberate ourselves.’”~ Maraga
Meanwhile, the United Green Movement continues to expand its presence across the country as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its political base.
