Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has dismissed claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that the government is planning to increase fuel prices ahead of the latest monthly review.
Wandayi responded to Gachagua on Wednesday, October 14, while accompanying President William Ruto on a campaign tour in West Pokot County.
Gachagua had accused the government of planning to increase petrol prices by Ksh12 per litre and diesel by Ksh9 per litre, claiming the move was intended to raise money for political bribery ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Energy CS rejected the claims, saying fuel prices are set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which operates under the country’s petroleum pricing framework.
“Fuel prices are managed independently by EPRA and not individuals within government,” Wandayi said, dismissing Gachagua’s knowledge of the pricing process.
He did not confirm whether the latest review would result in an increase or a reduction in pump prices.
Wandayi also defended the country’s fuel supply, saying Kenya had continued receiving petroleum products despite disruptions in the Middle East that have affected global oil prices and shipping costs.
The CS turned his criticism on Gachagua, accusing him of demanding bribes from petroleum companies that had agreements with the Kenyan government during his time as Deputy President.
“You had been demanding bribes when you were a Deputy President from petroleum firms; you can never tell us anything about fuel prices in this nation,” said Wandayi.
This new round of tussle takes place as the citizens look forward to the monthly announcement from EPRA on the maximum retail prices for petrol, diesel, and kerosene.
The claims that have been raised by these two leaders come prior to the 2027 general elections where fuel prices continue to be one of the major concerns due to their impact on transport costs as well as commodity prices.