The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has urged the public to reject plans for toll fees on publicly funded roads, specifically one targeting the Dongo Kundu bypass in Mombasa.
In a statement on their official X account, MAK criticized the proposed tolling policy, arguing that it unfairly burdens taxpayers who financed the bypass’s construction.
MAK emphasized that imposing tolls on roads built with public funds constitutes double taxation.
“Turning the publicly funded Dongo Kundu Bypass into a toll road is an unjust imposition on taxpayers. Kenyans have already financed its construction!” read the statement.
They called for solidarity among citizens to oppose this initiative, recalling their previous successes in fighting similar tolling proposals on other major roads across the country.
“Join the Motorists Association to oppose this Coast discriminative move, as we successfully did for Thika Road, the Southern Bypass, and the Nyali Bridge. Say no to illegal toll roads,” the statement further reads.
MAK Protests the Tax Burden Imposed on Motorists
In an earlier statement the association stressed that it is unacceptable to impose tolls on roads built on public land using public resources, whether through direct funding or loans.
MAK emphasized that loans used for road projects are repaid by the government’s consolidated fund, not motorists alone.
They asserted that such discrimination cannot be allowed and urged the government to reconsider this plan.
“No way you can charge a toll on a road built on public land, using public funds in loans or otherwise.”
“Loans are paid by the exchequer consolidated funds not motorists alone such discrimination cannot be allowed,” said MAK.
Also Read: Motorists Threaten to Sue Govt Over Ksh470 Billion Expressway Deal Secured by Ruto
KeNHA Announces Toll fees on Dongo Kundu Bypass
This development comes after the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) recently announced plans to introduce toll fees on the newly opened Dongo Kundu bypass.
According to KeNHA, the tolling policy is still in development and will undergo public participation before it is finalized.
“A tolling policy is being developed and will soon be subjected to public participation for input.”
“Once approved, this policy will guide consideration of such a project as Dongo Kundu bypass for tolling,” said Deputy Communications Director Samwel Kumba.
Also Read: Murkomen Seals Deal to Create 3 Million Jobs for Kenyans
Details of the Dongo Kundu Bypass
The Dongo Kundu bypass, which cost a staggering Ksh30 billion, was opened to members of the public on Wednesday August 7.
Additionally, the road aims to facilitate business, tourism, and agriculture in the South Coast while reducing congestion in Mombasa.
Construction of the road which links Miritini and Kwale County began in 2018, with substantial work kicking off in March 2020.
The project was initially slated for completion in March, it however faced a five-month delay.
Currently, only one section of the road is operational with the contractor finalizing on crucial aspects such as road marking, guard rails, and lighting to enhance safety.
This multi-billion-shilling project serves as an alternative route to the Likoni Ferry for travelers heading to the South Coast.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates.
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
