By Dorothy Musyoka
A prolonged tussle over the control of the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) has delayed critical road construction projects across counties, prompting calls for President William Ruto to intervene. The dispute, which pits governors against Members of Parliament (MPs), has led to stalled development, with both sides vying for control over the substantial funds generated from the fuel levy.
Governors have expressed frustration over the slow pace of court cases related to the dispute, emphasizing the urgent need for road projects in their regions. Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has been vocal in advocating for a more equitable distribution of the funds.
“We urge the national assembly, Council of Governors and the President to intervene and that monies collected from the fuel levy are distributed to all levels to address the immediate needs of roads in different counties and spur growth,” Njuki stated.
The governors argue that delays in road construction are adversely affecting development and the well-being of residents, with pressing demands from the ground for infrastructure improvement. The MPs, on the other hand, insist on their role in overseeing the allocation and utilization of the funds, leading to a protracted standoff.
The RMLF, a significant source of revenue for road maintenance and construction, has become a contentious issue as both governors and MPs seek to control the billions in the fund. The impasse has hindered progress on essential road projects, leaving communities without much-needed infrastructure improvements.
As the dispute drags on, stakeholders are now looking to President Ruto to mediate and find a lasting solution that ensures equitable distribution of the RMLF and accelerates road construction projects. The outcome of this mediation could set a precedent for resolving similar conflicts and pave the way for more efficient infrastructure development across the country.