KeRRA on the spot over missing Sh3.7billion Road Levy deductions

The Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) has come under intense scrutiny from Members of Parliament (MPs) over the alleged deduction of Sh3.7 billion from road maintenance funds, in a row that now threatens to escalate into a major accountability showdown.

The National Assembly Committee on Transport and Infrastructure raised concerns over what legislators termed as irregular and unexplained deductions from the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF), money earmarked for the upkeep of rural roads across the country.

The MPs questioned why such a substantial amount had been withheld or reallocated without clear justification.

Lawmakers accused the authority of undermining service delivery, warning that the deductions could stall critical road projects in constituencies.

The committee is now expected to compile its findings and recommendations, setting the stage for possible parliamentary action.

“We cannot allow a situation where funds meant for maintaining roads are deducted without transparency. This is money that directly affects wananchi,” one MP told the committee.

The committee demanded a detailed breakdown of how the Sh3.7 billion was utilised, with some legislators expressing frustration over what they described as evasive responses from officials.

“You must explain to this House where this money went. We need accountability, not general statements,” another member insisted during the heated session.

Officials from KeRRA defended their actions, indicating that the deductions were linked to broader government financing mechanisms and allocations under the Road Maintenance Levy Fund.

They maintained that all expenditures were within the law and aligned with national infrastructure priorities.

However, MPs remained unconvinced, pressing for documentation and timelines to support the claims.

The dispute highlights growing tension between Parliament and road agencies over the management of public funds, particularly those tied to infrastructure development.

KeRRA, established under the Kenya Roads Act 2007, is mandated to develop, rehabilitate and maintain rural roads across the country.

Legislators warned that failure to provide satisfactory answers could result in sanctions, including budgetary cuts or further investigations.

Some MPs also hinted at summoning officials from the Kenya Roads Board to shed more light on the allocation and disbursement of the levy.

The controversy comes at a time when many rural roads remain in poor condition, with leaders under pressure from constituents to deliver tangible improvements.

MPs argued that any mismanagement or opacity in the use of road funds directly undermines economic activity and access to essential services.