EPRA Raises Fuel Prices Hours After Gachagua’s Prediction on Costly Petrol and Diesel

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced higher fuel prices in Kenya, hours after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed that motorists would face an increase in the cost of petrol and diesel. The development has drawn attention to Gachagua’s October 14 remarks, in which he alleged that the government was preparing to raise pump prices by KSh12 per litre of petrol and KSh9 per litre of diesel.

In his statement, Gachagua accused President William Ruto’s administration of planning the increases to raise money for political activities ahead of the 2027 General Election. He further alleged that the proposed changes were linked to financial demands facing the President during public engagements, although he did not provide evidence to substantiate the claims.

Gachagua also mentioned Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, alleging that the CS had been instructed to explain the anticipated increases by citing changes in international oil prices. His remarks came as motorists awaited EPRA’s monthly review, which determines the maximum retail prices of petroleum products across the country.

Before the latest review, motorists in Nairobi were paying KSh214.03 for a litre of Super Petrol and KSh217.86 for diesel under the prices that took effect on September 15, 2026. The figures provided the basis for comparisons as consumers anticipated the announcement of the new rates covering the next pricing cycle.

Wandayi had earlier warned that international developments were putting pressure on Kenya’s fuel import costs. He attributed the rising expenses to tensions in the Middle East, which had affected shipping routes, insurance charges and the movement of petroleum products, while maintaining that Kenya’s fuel supply remained stable.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the landed cost of Super Petrol increased from approximately US$1,199 per tonne in August to US$1,385 in September, while diesel costs rose from about US$1,200 to US$1,313 over the same period. The increases highlighted the external pressures facing the petroleum sector, although Gachagua’s allegations about the government’s motives remain separate from the stated international cost factors. The actual changes in pump prices must be assessed against EPRA’s official announcement, rather than the earlier claims alone.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/100046664565790/posts/1834261648139303/

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