Gachagua Blames Ruto for Fuel Price Hikes as Wandayi Defends EPRA’s Role

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised President William Ruto over the latest increase in fuel prices, accusing the Head of State of being responsible for the higher cost of petrol and diesel.

Gachagua made the remarks following the latest fuel price review, which saw motorists face increased pump prices across the country. He argued that the changes would place additional pressure on Kenyans already struggling with the high cost of living and the rising prices of essential goods and services.

“Last evening, Ruto ruthlessly ordered a Ksh9 increase in the price of diesel and a Ksh12 increase in petrol,” Gachagua said, directly linking the adjustments to the President.

His statement drew a response from Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who challenged the former deputy president’s understanding of the legal process governing fuel prices in Kenya.

Wandayi maintained that the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), rather than the President, is responsible for setting the country’s regulated fuel prices. He argued that the process is governed by law, pushing back against Gachagua’s accusation that Ruto personally ordered the increases.

“According to the law, setting fuel prices is the responsibility of EPRA, but you would never understand that,” Wandayi said in response to the criticism.

The exchange highlights the political disagreement surrounding the latest fuel price adjustments, with opposition figures holding the government accountable for the rising cost of living while the Energy Ministry points to EPRA’s statutory role in determining pump prices. The increases are likely to remain a concern for motorists, transport operators and businesses because higher fuel costs can contribute to increased transport and commodity prices, adding to the financial burden facing households.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/100064288795404/posts/1546757290810549/

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