Fuel Price Row Escalates as Leaders Demand Tax Cuts, Probe Hoarding Claims

Kenya, April 15, 2026 - Pressure is mounting on the government over rising fuel prices, with leaders calling for tax reductions, stronger regulatory oversight, and investigations into alleged fuel hoarding.

Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo said Kenya’s fuel pricing structure is heavily skewed against consumers.

She argued that taxes and levies account for about 80 percent of the total cost of fuel.

Odhiambo noted that rising fuel prices continue to affect the wider economy, increasing pressure on households and businesses.

She said the government has a responsibility to cushion citizens from global price shocks.

“The ripple effect of surges in fuel prices on overall market dynamics places an obligation on the government to make concessions,” she said.

While acknowledging the reduction of VAT from 16 percent to 13 percent, she described the move as insufficient.

She added that Kenyan motorists already face some of the highest fuel prices in the region.

Odhiambo also criticised the latest fuel price adjustment by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), saying it does not reflect the economic reality facing citizens.

She called on Parliament to strengthen its oversight role.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei supported calls for further tax cuts, proposing a reduction of VAT on fuel from 13 percent to 8 percent.