Former Chief Justice David Maraga has criticised the government’s multi-billion shilling Rironi-Mau Summit road project, alleging that the initiative is riddled with corruption and inflated costs.
Speaking during a funeral service in Kisii County, the United Green Movement (UGM) presidential aspirant accused President William Ruto’s administration of using the infrastructure project as a channel to embezzle public funds.
Maraga claimed the project’s budget raises serious concerns about accountability and prudent use of taxpayer money, arguing that the road’s cost is excessively high.
The Rironi-Mau Summit road project, which stretches approximately 175 kilometres, is among the flagship infrastructure developments launched by President Ruto’s government to ease traffic congestion along the busy Nairobi-Nakuru highway corridor.
The project, estimated to cost Ksh184 billion, was officially launched in November last year and is expected to significantly improve transport and trade between Nairobi and western Kenya.
Despite the government’s optimism surrounding the project, concerns have continued emerging over the total expenditure involved.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir recently defended the project, saying sections of the highway are already under development.
“Section between Gilgil and Nakuru is a six dual lane … we are hoping to officially open the section by August this year,” Chirchir said.
The CS further explained that the highway expansion would vary across sections depending on traffic demands.
“From Naivasha to Gilgil, the road will be four lanes, from there to Nakuru, six lanes,” he added.
The Rironi-Mau Summit highway remains one of the most closely watched infrastructure projects under the Kenya Kwanza administration due to its strategic economic importance and massive budget allocation.
However, Maraga’s remarks are likely to intensify political debate over transparency, procurement processes and public spending ahead of the 2027 General Election.
