Pressure is mounting on President William Ruto after opposition leaders issued a fresh warning over the rising cost of fuel, setting the stage for a possible new wave of protests across the country.
Led by Rigathi Gachagua on Wednesday, the leaders have given the government a seven day ultimatum to lower fuel prices, warning that failure to act will trigger nationwide demonstrations.
The opposition has accused senior government officials of interfering with fuel importation deals for personal benefit, claims they say have contributed to the sharp increase in pump prices.
“Fuel is no longer just a commodity, it is now a tool of economic punishment,” Gachagua said, as he called for transparency and accountability in the energy sector.
The latest threat comes at a time when fuel prices have crossed the KSh 200 mark in parts of the country, triggering a ripple effect on transport, food prices and basic goods.
In response, President Ruto has defended his administration, insisting that the fuel price surge is largely driven by global factors beyond Kenya’s control.
He has pointed to instability in international oil markets and supply chain disruptions, particularly linked to tensions in oil producing regions, as key drivers of the rising costs.
The President has also maintained that the government to government fuel import deal was designed to stabilise supply and protect the country from severe shortages.
At the same time, he has urged leaders to avoid politicising the issue, calling instead for solutions that will shield ordinary Kenyans from further economic strain.
Even so, critics within the opposition insist that local mismanagement and lack of accountability are worsening the situation.
With the ultimatum now issued, attention shifts to how the government will respond, as Kenyans brace for either relief at the pump or a return to the streets.
