Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has criticised the latest fuel price increase announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), terming it a “betrayal of wananchi” and warning of tough economic times ahead.
In a statement issued on April 15, Odinga said the government had failed to protect Kenyans from rising fuel costs despite earlier assurances tied to the Government-to-Government (G2G) fuel import deal.
EPRA’s latest review saw diesel prices rise by about Sh40 per litre, pushing the cost beyond Sh200 in Nairobi.
Petrol prices also increased significantly in the same cycle. The changes are expected to affect transport, food prices and overall cost of living.
Odinga criticised the Ministry of Energy over what she described as misleading assurances, noting that Kenyans had been promised stability under the G2G framework.
She said the arrangement, which was presented as a safeguard against global oil price shocks, has not delivered the expected results.
She warned that the increase in diesel prices would have a direct impact on key sectors of the economy. Diesel powers transport, agriculture and production, meaning the cost of goods and services is likely to rise.
The legislator pointed out that farmers would face higher costs for ploughing, irrigation and transporting produce. She added that transport operators would likely increase fares, making it difficult for many Kenyans to afford daily commuting.
On household spending, Odinga said the rise in fuel prices would quickly be reflected in the cost of basic commodities such as maize flour, milk and sugar.
She warned that continued increases could worsen the cost of living crisis facing many families.
She also questioned the factors behind the price adjustment, calling on the government to explain whether the increase is solely due to global oil prices or linked to local inefficiencies within the fuel supply chain.
Odinga further raised concerns about the G2G deal, asking why fuel prices remain high despite the policy being introduced to stabilise supply and ease pressure on the shilling.
She called on the government to review the new prices and introduce measures to cushion Kenyans, saying households and businesses need practical relief as the cost of living continues to rise.