Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi has sharply criticised President William Ruto’s proposal for a new Infrastructure Fund that aims to raise Ksh1.5 trillion for road projects, warning that the plan risks worsening the economic burden already weighing down Kenyans.

In a statement shared on his official X account on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Muturi said the government cannot continue to fund development by overtaxing citizens while failing to uphold accountability and integrity in public spending.

“President Ruto must understand that you cannot fund development by impoverishing the people. You fund development by governing with integrity,” Muturi said.

The former Attorney General and Speaker of the National Assembly argued that Kenyans are already stretched to the limit and cannot absorb new taxes or levies. “Kenyans have no more to give. What they want now is not a new fund but a new culture of responsibility,” he said, adding that true national rebuilding will depend on honesty and discipline in leadership.

Muturi described the Ksh1.5 trillion Infrastructure Fund as “the tragic irony of our times: a government that loots with one hand and begs with the other.” He said the country’s real problem is not a lack of money but the failure to manage resources prudently.

“Kenya does not suffer from a shortage of money; it suffers from a shortage of honesty in leadership. If the president truly wants to build roads, he should start by building trust,” Muturi stated.

The Democratic Party leader outlined several steps the government should take before creating new funds or borrowing more. “Stop corruption. Billions are lost monthly in inflated contracts, ghost projects, and kickbacks. Seal these leaks, and Kenya will have enough to pave every major road without a single new tax,” he said.

He also urged the President to cut wasteful spending. “Lavish foreign trips, unnecessary offices, luxury cars, and unending delegations are draining the Treasury. Lead by example, start with austerity at the top,” he added.

Muturi called for competent professionals to be placed in charge of development projects and for strict accountability in the use of public funds. “Every shilling spent must be traceable. Independent oversight institutions must be strengthened, not undermined,” he said.

The statement has sparked renewed debate about government priorities and the growing frustration among citizens over heavy taxation and economic strain.