JD Guchua

The sharp increase in fuel prices announced by EPRA, particularly the KShs 46.29 rise in diesel prices, will inevitably intensify pressure on households, public transport, small businesses and the overall cost of living. Diesel remains central to transport, food production and commercial activity, meaning the inflationary impact of this adjustment will be felt across the economy, especially by ordinary Kenyans already under strain. While global instability and supply disruptions in the Persian Gulf continue to affect international energy markets, Government retains a constitutional obligation under Article 201 to ensure that public finance promotes an equitable society. Fuel pricing decisions cannot be divorced from their social and economic consequences. Although the KShs 5 billion Petroleum Development Levy subsidy is acknowledged, greater intervention and transparency remain necessary. The heightened reliance on petroleum taxation and levies as a major revenue source is further aggravated by lack of accountability, openness and meaningful public participation in line with the Constitution. In the premise, the government should urgently consider additional measures to cushion vulnerable sectors, strengthen oversight against price exploitation and ensure that public policy and revenue generation remain anchored in equity, social protection and economic justice.