Kalonzo calls for tarmacking of key road

By PAUL MUTUA

Former Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka has challenged President Uhuru Kenyatta to ensure tarmacking work on the Kibwezi-Kitui-Mwingi Road starts immediately.

Kalonzo asked the President to guarantee that the negotiated $500 million loan from the Export and Import Bank of China for the tarmacking of the 340km road was not diverted to non-priority projects in other areas. The Wiper party leader said the neglected road was part of an international highway that holds the key to unlocking the economic potential of Kitui County.

Commitment

Speaking at St Paul’s Ikanga Catholic Church during a funds-drive at the weekend, Kalonzo said the controversial road has a long history with the government dating back four decades ago.

“I want to believe that the President’s recent visit to China was part of negotiations to kick-start the tarmacking of the road. We demand firm commitment from the government on construction of the project,” the former VP said.