Deputy party leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Cleophas Malala has criticized the latest fuel price increase announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), saying the move places an added burden on Kenyans despite government claims of relief measures.
In a statement, Malala described the situation as a “system ya majambazi,” questioning how pump prices could rise sharply even after the government announced a KSh 6.2 billion subsidy and reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel from 16% to 13%.
Under the new review, petrol increased by about KSh 28.69 per litre while diesel rose by KSh 40.30 per litre, pushing both above KSh 200.
The rise has raised concern among consumers and businesses already dealing with high living costs.
Malala argued that a large share of the pump price is made up of taxes and government charges.
He said that out of every KSh 200 spent on fuel, up to KSh 85 goes to taxes and levies, which is about 42–45% of the total cost.
“What Kenyans are paying is not just fuel, but policy,” Malala said, accusing the government of presenting subsidies and tax adjustments as relief while prices continue to rise.
He questioned the impact of the measures announced, noting that the VAT reduction and subsidy had not prevented what he described as a significant increase of up to 25%.
Malala also warned that the rise in diesel prices would affect multiple sectors of the economy. He said diesel plays a key role in transport, electricity generation, and the movement of goods.
“When diesel goes up, everything follows,” he said, pointing to possible increases in food prices, public transport fares, electricity costs, and logistics.
His remarks come as Kenyans face increasing pressure on household budgets. Higher fuel prices are expected to push up the cost of basic goods and services in the coming weeks.
The government has attributed the increase to rising global oil prices and external market factors.
However, Malala maintains that local tax policies are a major contributor to the high pump prices.