UGM Party Slams Ruto Over Logging Ban Lift, Calls Mau Forest Decision a National Betrayal

UGM Party Slams Ruto Over Logging Ban Lift, Calls Mau Forest Decision a National Betrayal

President William Ruto’s decision to lift the logging ban in the Mau Forest Complex has sparked outrage across Kenya. The United Green Movement (UGM) party, linked to former Chief Justice David Maraga, has condemned the move, calling it a direct attack on Kenya’s environmental future.

“This Is a Betrayal” — UGM Leaders Speak Out

On Tuesday evening, UGM Secretaries General Katto Wambua and Sialo Tasur issued a fiery statement. They accused Ruto of deliberately endangering one of East Africa’s most vital ecosystems.

“The Mau Forest is virtually the lungs of our business as a country,” the party stated. “It provides tourism revenue, jobs, food, water and electricity.”

They argued that lifting the ban contradicts the government’s own water conservation efforts launched the same day.

“Mau Is Our Lifeline” — Forest Feeds 12 Rivers

UGM emphasized that the Mau Forest Complex is more than just trees. It’s a water catchment that feeds 12 major rivers, sustaining life in six counties.

“This forest supports Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Kajiado, Nakuru and Nairobi,” Wambua said. “Destroying it threatens millions of livelihoods.”

The party also highlighted the forest’s role in supporting wildlife and iconic parks like Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru.

“We’ve Already Lost Too Much” — Logging History Haunts Kenya

UGM reminded Kenyans that over 40% of the original Mau Forest has already been lost. They blamed decades of illegal logging, encroachment, and land grabbing by political elites.

“We cannot afford another wave of destruction,” Tasur warned. “This decision will accelerate deforestation and worsen climate change.”

They called on citizens to reject the president’s directive and demand accountability.

“Ruto Is Speaking From Both Sides” — Accusations of Hypocrisy

UGM accused Ruto of double speak. While he promotes climate talks globally, they say he’s enabling deforestation at home.

“President Ruto, who positions himself as Africa’s climate champion, is paradoxically allowing the destruction of Mau Forest,” the party noted.

They urged Kenyans to see through the contradiction and stand up for environmental justice.

“Only Mature Trees Will Be Cut” — Ruto Defends Decision

Speaking in Nakuru County on Monday, Ruto defended his move. He said the government would only allow the harvesting of mature trees.

“We must put mature trees to productive use instead of letting them rot,” Ruto stated.

However, critics argue that this opens the door to abuse and unchecked logging.

“Kenyans Must Rise” — UGM Calls for Action

UGM ended their statement with a passionate call to action.

“Kenyans must rise and reject this betrayal,” Wambua declared. “Our forests are not for profit. They are for survival.”

As the debate intensifies, the future of Mau Forest hangs in the balance.

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UGM Party Slams Ruto Over Logging Ban Lift, Calls Mau Forest Decision a National Betrayal