Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya has issued a statement following the government of President William Ruto’s decision to increase fuel prices by over KSh 40 per litre on Thursday.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has increased the highest prices for super petrol and diesel for the pricing period from April 15 to May 14, 2026, due to a supply issue in the Middle East that has caused the cost of imported fuel to more than double in just one pricing period.
In Nairobi, super petrol now retails at KSh 206.97 per litre, up KSh 28.69 from KSh 178.28, while diesel has risen by KSh 40.30 to an all-time high of KSh 206.84. The diesel increase is the largest single-month jump for any petroleum product in at least 21 years of price records, surpassing the previous record of KSh 25.00 set in September 2022 by 61 percent. Kerosene remains unchanged at KSh 152.78.
Natembeya’s Response
In a statement issued after the massive fuel hike, Natembeya—who is a member of the United Opposition— said the move will hit Kenyans who are already bearing the high cost of living. He urged the government to instead remove taxes on fuel to cushion Kenyans against the massive price increase.
Here is Natembeya’s full statement:
“Kenyans have once again been hit with a painful fuel price increase, pushing petrol and diesel beyond KES 200 per litre in major towns. This is not just a number — it is a direct attack on the cost of living.
While the government blames global oil prices and international conflicts, the truth is that poor policy decisions, excessive taxation, and lack of proper planning have made the situation worse.
Let us state the facts:
- Taxes and levies still form a significant portion of every litre of fuel Kenyans buy. Even with minor VAT adjustments, the government continues to overburden citizens.
- Kenya lacks adequate strategic fuel reserves, leaving the country exposed to global shocks. This is a failure of long-term energy planning.
- The Petroleum Development Levy, which was meant to cushion Kenyans, has been inconsistently managed and repeatedly strained.
- There have been serious allegations of mismanagement and irregular procurement in the energy sector, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
Fuel affects everything — transport, food prices, electricity, and basic goods. When fuel crosses KES 200, the cost of living rises across the board. The ordinary Kenyan — the mama mboga, the boda boda rider, the farmer — pays the price.
This regime cannot continue hiding behind international excuses while failing to implement serious structural reforms at home.
As the opposition, we demand:
- Immediate review and reduction of fuel-related taxes and levies.
- Full transparency on fuel procurement and use of stabilization funds.
- A long-term national energy security strategy to shield Kenyans from recurring shocks.
- Accountability for any official found responsible for mismanagement or exploitation.
Leadership is tested in difficult times. This government has failed that test. Kenyans deserve relief. Kenyans deserve honesty. Kenyans deserve better.”
READ MORE:
Gachagua Was Always Admiring My Body Physique Instead of Working—Ruto’s PS Reveals in a Video
Mutahi Ngunyi Predicts The Burning Of Kikuyus In 2027 Like In 2007
“Ruto Has Approached Me With Offers” -Senator Methu Claims President Dangles Money to Buy Loyalty
