Siaya Governor James Orengo has strongly criticised the latest increase in fuel prices, accusing the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) of failing to be transparent and placing an additional burden on already struggling Kenyans.
In his remarks following the new pricing cycle, Orengo said the current economic situation reflects what he termed as disregard for public concern.
He said the latest adjustments have come at a time when Kenyans are already dealing with rising living costs and uncertainty in the fuel market.
EPRA recently adjusted pump prices, setting super petrol at KSh 206.97 per litre, diesel at KSh 206.84, and kerosene at KSh 152.78.
Petrol increased by KSh 28.69 and diesel by KSh 40.30 compared to the previous review, changes that are expected to affect transport costs and commodity prices across the country.
Orengo linked the price hike to ongoing concerns over fuel quality, noting that motorists have recently expressed fears over contaminated fuel in the market.
He said it is unfair for consumers to face both quality risks and higher costs at the same time.
He argued that the burden of the increase will be felt far beyond vehicle owners, pointing out that higher fuel prices directly push up matatu fares, freight charges, and the cost of basic goods.
Households, he said, will continue to feel the pressure as inflationary effects spread through the economy.
A key concern raised by the governor is what he described as lack of transparency in fuel pricing.
He questioned the basis of EPRA’s calculations and called for the immediate release of the Cost of Service Study used to determine the current margins.
Orengo said public participation should not be limited to sectors such as electricity, arguing that fuel pricing affects every Kenyan and should therefore be subjected to similar scrutiny.
He warned that decisions made without public input risk undermining trust in regulatory institutions.
He also raised concern over the structure of fuel pricing, arguing that administrative controls may be contributing to inefficiencies in the market.
According to him, the current system allows room for influence by industry players, making it difficult for consumers to understand how final pump prices are determined.
The governor proposed a shift toward a more competitive petroleum market, saying open competition would help reduce distortions and protect consumers from unexplained price increases.
He maintained that transparency and competition remain the only sustainable way to stabilise fuel costs.
The latest price adjustments come despite a reduction in VAT on fuel from 16 per cent to 13 per cent, a move intended to ease pressure on consumers. However, the reduction has been outweighed by higher global oil prices and increased import costs.