As the country battles the nationwide matatu and transport strike that has paralysed movement and business activities across Kenya, former Chief Justice David Maraga has called for urgent reforms on fuel taxes.
Maraga, in a statement on his official X account on May 18, 2026, expressed his solidarity with Kenyans grappling with the rising cost of living and the ongoing transport crisis caused by high fuel prices.
“Poor governance and heavy taxation have aggravated the economic pressure on ordinary citizens,” said Maraga. He said the increase in the price of fuel has made it difficult for many Kenyans to meet their basic needs such as transport and food.
Maraga said the fuel crisis was tied to global tensions, including the ongoing conflict involving Iran and instability in international oil markets. But he stressed that the Kenyan government should move quickly to safeguard its citizens from the economic impact.
Maraga said in his statement:
I wish to express my solidarity with Kenyans who have to bear the burden of bad governance that has led to the paralysis of the transport sector today.
While we acknowledge that the fuel crisis is a direct result of the war against Iran, every responsible government is taking…
— David Maraga (@dkmaraga) May 18, 2026
He urged Parliament to meet immediately and introduce emergency measures to lower fuel prices and ease pressure on households and businesses.
Maraga proposed removing VAT on fuel products, temporarily suspending fuel levies, and redirecting public funds lost through corruption toward stabilizing the energy sector.
According to Maraga, reducing fuel taxes could lower transport costs and slow the rising prices of basic commodities across the country.
He spoke as matatu operators, boda boda riders, truck drivers, and taxi operators continued their nationwide strike against the fuel prices announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
The strike disrupted transport in Nairobi, Kitengela, Thika Road, and several other towns, leaving thousands of commuters stranded.
In Kitengela, protesters blocked parts of Namanga Road using stones and burning tyres, causing heavy traffic and forcing many businesses to close temporarily. Demonstrators also barricaded sections of Thika Road near Roysambu, bringing traffic to a standstill.
READ ALSO: Thika Road Barricaded as Nationwide Matatu Strike Disrupts Transport
The shortage of public transport vehicles forced many Kenyans to walk long distances to work, while others paid higher prices for motorcycles and ride-hailing services.
“We cannot continue doing business with these fuel prices,” transport operators said, arguing that expensive fuel continues to push the cost of living beyond the reach of many families.
Maraga’s statement adds to growing pressure on the Kenya Kwanza administration as political leaders, economists, and civil society groups continue demanding urgent solutions to the fuel crisis and the rising cost of living.
The government has defended its handling of the situation and blamed global oil market pressure and international conflicts for the rising fuel prices. However, the transport shutdown continues to affect businesses, workers, and commuters across the country as public frustration grows.
