Nyeri: Governor Mutahi Kahiga has called on the Government to enact measures that will cushion Kenyans against impacts of skyrocketing fuel prices. Kahiga says ordinary Kenyans should not be left to suffer from the soaring fuel prices at times when they are going through economic hardships.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) announced the withdrawal of commuter services countrywide until the Government lowers the cost of fuel, a move that has paralysed public transport across the country since Monday morning. Currently, the cost of Petrol retails at Sh 214.25, Diesel at Sh 242.92, while Kerosene is selling at Sh 152.78.
Kahiga expressed concerns over the rising fuel prices, emphasizing the trickle-down effect on all sectors, including transport and business, which subsequently increases the prices of goods and commodities. He urged the Government to act promptly to reduce fuel costs. Among his proposals is the zero rating of all fuel products, currently at 8 per cent, which he believes will significantly lower fuel costs. He also suggested reducing the Road Maintenance Levy Fund from Sh 24 per litre to Sh 14 and increasing the fuel subsidy from Sh 11 billion to at least Sh 17 billion.
Kahiga called for an urgent recall of Parliament to enact these proposals, which he believes will lower both the pump price and the overall cost of living for ordinary citizens. He stressed the need for the Government to increase the fuel subsidy and urged Speaker Wetan’gula to reconvene Parliament to address the issue. He also called for a reduction in the profit margins of fuel marketers to reasonable levels.
Kieni MP Wainaina Njoroge echoed Kahiga’s sentiments, urging Parliament to address the fuel crisis. He acknowledged the impact of the Iran-US standoff on oil prices but emphasized the role of lawmakers in protecting Kenyans. Wainaina called for a comprehensive discussion involving all stakeholders and urged Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi to explain the Government’s plans to tackle high fuel costs, noting the necessity of transparent communication to alleviate the issue.
