KISII, Kenya May 16 – Former Chief Justice and United Green Movement presidential candidate David Maraga has criticized the rising fuel prices in Kenya, saying the country would not be facing the current crisis if national resources had been managed prudently and sustainable investments prioritized.
Speaking in Kisii during the Law Society of Kenya South West branch prayer breakfast, Maraga blamed poor resource management and overreliance on imported energy for exposing Kenyans to recurring economic hardships whenever global fuel prices increase.
He said Kenya has significant potential in renewable energy, agriculture, and local industries that could help cushion citizens from the high cost of living if properly utilized.
“We would not be crying over fuel prices if we had used our resources diligently and planned for the future. Kenya is blessed with resources, but leadership and accountability are key,” Maraga said.
The former Chief Justice further noted that fuel prices in neighboring countries such as Rwanda remain lower than in Kenya despite recent global market shocks.
“We would not be crying over fuel prices if we had used our resources diligently and planned wisely for the future. Kenya has enough resources to support its people,” he added.
Maraga also pledged to enforce zero tolerance to corruption and ensure prudent use of public resources if elected president.
He argued that corruption continues to deny Kenyans quality public services and slows economic growth, stressing that accountable leadership is necessary to transform the country.
“If elected president, I will ensure public resources are utilized responsibly and corruption is dealt with firmly without fear,” he stated.
He urged the government to prioritize transparency, renewable energy investments, and policies aimed at reducing the burden of the rising cost of living on ordinary Kenyans.