Kenyans on Friday took to Twitter to react to Kenya being denied a Ksh 368 billion loan that was meant for the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu.
President Uhuru Kenyatta, ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga and other top government officials had travelled to the Asian country on Tuesday for talks to secure the funds.
However, it seems the talks hit a dead end as the leaders returned to Kenya empty-handed.
Speaking to The Standard on Saturday, Transport CS James Macharia confirmed that they had not signed the deal with China.
“No, we didn’t sign the deal. We shall first complete connectivity of SGR and the MGR (Metre Gauge Railway) at Naivasha and then rehabilitate the line to Malaba border.
At the same time we shall commercialise special economic zones along the Northern Corridor in order to generate economic returns,” he stated.
Kenyans took to social media to share their sentiments upon learning that Kenya had been denied the loan.
Most of them were pleased the president had failed to secure the loan. According to them, Kenya should focus on repaying its debts rather than seeking new loans.
Jensen Hooks wrote, " Loans amounting to those billions have the consent of Kenyan citizens because it's their burden, shame on this reckless, extravagant and unaccountable government."
John Walusimbi posted, "This could be due to several factors. How was the previous loan utilized? If it was not utilized well, let's point at the culprits."
Moses Chacha tweeted, "Look at God overworking. Thank you, Jesus."
Rose Kemunto commented, "I appreciate China for rejecting the loan, it could be a huge burden to the poor Kenyan citizens and a celebration to the corrupt."
