Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, Gachagua questioned the President’s overseas trips and alleged spending on luxury travel at a time when many Kenyans face high fuel prices, increased transport costs, and inflation. His remarks came just days after nationwide protests and a matatu strike disrupted transport across several counties.
The protests came after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s latest monthly review, which saw fuel prices go up. Petrol prices surged by KSh 16.65 per litre and diesel by KSh 46.29. Diesel prices in Nairobi soared to over KSh 240 before EPRA cut the price of diesel by KSh 10.06 following pressure from the public.
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According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, transport and energy costs remain among the biggest contributors to the rising cost of living in Kenya. Public transport operators argued that the higher diesel prices had made operations unsustainable, forcing many matatus and boda bodas off the roads.
Gachagua also criticised the government’s crisis response, questioning reports that digital strategist Dennis Itumbi chaired discussions involving senior Cabinet Secretaries during negotiations over the fuel crisis.
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The DCP party leader, Rigathi Gachagua, further claimed that Kenyans are demanding accountability and transparency, especially on fuel pricing and taxes. He urged the government to publish the actual landed cost of fuel and reduce taxes to ease pressure on households and businesses.
However, the government has defended the fuel price hike, citing disruptions in the global oil market due to tensions in the Middle East and issues affecting fuel supply routes via the Strait of Hormuz. Officials say talks between transport stakeholders are ongoing to find a long-term solution to stabilise prices.
