Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, urged the government to cut fuel taxes after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority raised pump prices in the latest review, warning of rising economic strain across Kenya.
According to recent fuel pricing updates, super petrol increased by Ksh28.69 per litre while diesel rose by Ksh40.30, intensifying pressure on transport, food prices, and small businesses nationwide.
Nyoro accused the administration of failing to act decisively, calling recent tax relief measures insufficient and urging a return to earlier VAT levels and expanded subsidies through the Fuel Stabilisation Fund.
He said the current VAT reduction is inadequate and argued that fuel should be temporarily exempted from VAT to ease household costs during the ongoing price surge.
The government has maintained that recent adjustments, including reduced VAT and limited subsidies, are intended to balance fiscal stability with consumer relief, even as global oil markets continue to fluctuate.
Officials argue that the Fuel Stabilisation Fund framework is designed to cushion price shocks without worsening public debt, even as households continue to feel the impact of rising costs.
Opposition leaders have intensified calls for transparency in government-to-government fuel import arrangements, alleging inefficiencies and lack of accountability in the system.
They have also demanded accountability from senior energy officials, escalating political tension over rising fuel costs and broader economic hardship affecting citizens across the country.
Nyoro warned that delays in adjusting fuel prices could disrupt supply chains and worsen inflationary pressures across transport and agriculture sectors.
Transport operators in major towns have indicated that fares may increase if fuel prices remain high in the next review cycle.
Small traders have expressed concern that higher fuel costs are reducing profit margins and pushing up the cost of basic goods.
Nyoro reiterated that Kenya’s energy policy must prioritize affordability and urged immediate implementation of reforms rather than gradual adjustments over time.
Government officials maintain that abrupt tax cuts could widen the fiscal deficit and undermine long-term economic stability.
Analysts continue to point to global crude oil volatility and exchange rate pressures as key drivers of domestic fuel pricing.
Kenya remains heavily dependent on imported refined petroleum products, making it vulnerable to international supply disruptions and price shocks.
Despite ongoing interventions, critics argue that the government has not yet presented a sustainable long-term solution to stabilize pump prices.
Nyoro concluded by calling for urgent reforms, saying Kenyans deserve predictable fuel costs that reflect global market trends more fairly and transparently.
Political observers say fuel pricing will remain a central policy issue as households continue to face rising living costs across the country.
Lawmakers are expected to revisit fuel taxation policies in upcoming parliamentary sessions amid growing public pressure.
Nyoro maintained that reforms must balance affordability and fiscal responsibility while ensuring greater transparency in fuel pricing and import arrangements.
