“Kenyans are paying too much for fuel while the world market tells a different story.”
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has ignited a heated national conversation after strongly criticizing the rising fuel prices in Kenya, arguing that ordinary citizens are being pushed to the edge by excessive taxes, levies, and poor policy decisions.
In a passionate address shared on social media, Nyoro questioned why Kenyans are paying some of the highest fuel prices in the region despite global oil prices being lower than they were in 2022.
According to Nyoro, the current cost of fuel is no longer just an economic issue — it has become a survival issue for millions of Kenyans struggling with the rising cost of living.
The Numbers Fueling Public Anger
Recent EPRA fuel prices shocked many Kenyans:
Super Petrol: KSh 206.97
Diesel: KSh 206.84
Kerosene: KSh 152.78
The latest review saw:
Petrol increase by KSh 28.69
Diesel increase by KSh 40.30
These hikes have directly affected:
Matatu fares
Food prices
Electricity costs
Farm production
Small businesses
Nyoro argued that nearly 50% of what Kenyans pay at the pump goes to taxes and levies, making fuel one of the most heavily taxed commodities in the country.
Nyoro’s Proposed Solution
The MP proposed a series of measures that he says could reduce fuel prices by at least KSh 27 per litre:
Proposal Estimated Reduction
Removal of 2024 fuel levy KSh 7
VAT reduction by additional 5% KSh 8
Release of subsidies from Fuel Stabilization Fund KSh 12
Total Possible Reduction KSh 27
Nyoro also claimed that the Fuel Stabilization Fund currently holds over KSh 20 billion, money he believes should immediately cushion wananchi from the harsh economic pressure.
“Why Are Neighbouring Countries Paying Less?”
In his statement, Nyoro questioned Kenya’s controversial government-to-government fuel import deal, saying neighboring countries without the arrangement are enjoying cheaper fuel prices.
He pointed at:
Uganda
Rwanda
Ethiopia
Burundi
as examples where citizens are paying less at the pump.
The remarks have resonated strongly online, with many Kenyans flooding social media platforms demanding accountability and immediate intervention from the government.
Kenyans Feeling the Heat
For many families, fuel prices are no longer just about motorists.
A rise in fuel means:
Higher unga prices
Increased transport fares
Expensive farm inputs
Rising school transport costs
Increased delivery charges
Small business owners, boda boda riders, farmers, and matatu operators continue to bear the biggest burden as inflation bites harder across the country.
Government Response
The government has defended the latest increase, linking it to global market instability and tensions in the Middle East. Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi stated that subsidies had already helped prevent even steeper increases.
However, many Kenyans remain unconvinced, insisting that taxation and policy choices are the real drivers behind the soaring prices.
The Bigger Political Message
Nyoro’s remarks are now being viewed by political observers as more than just an economic argument. They signal growing concern within Kenya’s political class over the pressure ordinary citizens are facing.
As fuel prices continue climbing, the question many Kenyans are asking is simple:
**How much more can wananchi endure?**
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