Former Chief Justice David Maraga has accused the government of placing an unfair tax burden on Kenyans and using harsh economic policies he described as “economic terrorism,” remarks that have added fresh tension to the national debate on taxation and the cost of living.
Maraga said the current tax system is not working for ordinary citizens and argued that it is increasing financial pressure on households and businesses across the country.
Speaking on Friday during a public engagement, he said the direction of economic policy needs urgent review, saying many Kenyans are struggling under rising costs driven by multiple taxes.
He criticised President William Ruto’s administration, saying its approach to taxation has worsened the economic situation instead of easing pressure on citizens.
“Ruto’s Government is literally perpetrating, perpetrating economic terrorism on the Kenyan people, and that has to be stopped,” he said, warning that the current tax system is deepening the cost of living crisis.
He added that the structure of taxation appears focused on revenue collection without clear evidence of improved public services for citizens.
“If you look at the taxes, everything that has been set up is taxation,” he said, adding that the burden is becoming difficult for both households and businesses to manage.
Maraga further said that money collected through taxes is not being reflected in service delivery, raising concerns about how public resources are being managed.
He also claimed that some of the funds may not be reaching their intended purposes, questioning accountability in public spending.
His remarks come at a time when taxation remains a major national issue, with citizens facing multiple levies introduced to increase government revenue.
The government has defended its tax policies, saying they are necessary to reduce budget deficits, fund development projects, and meet debt obligations.
However, critics argue that the combined effect of several taxes has pushed the cost of living higher, especially for low and middle-income households.
Maraga’s comments have now intensified the debate, with renewed questions over whether taxpayers are receiving value from government spending.
His use of the phrase “economic terrorism” has sparked strong reactions, reflecting growing frustration over economic conditions and household pressure.
As discussions continue, his remarks are expected to increase scrutiny of how the government collects, manages, and spends public money.