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.
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He said lowering taxes and levies would help stabilise prices and ease pressure on consumers.
However, he also proposed increasing the Petroleum Development Levy, a move likely to trigger debate over its impact.
Cherargei criticised both EPRA and the Competition Authority of Kenya, accusing them of weak regulatory oversight.
He alleged that some oil marketers engaged in fuel hoarding ahead of recent price increases.
According to him, fuel shortages were reported before the price hike, but supplies returned immediately after prices were adjusted.
He argued that this points to possible market manipulation.
The senator also called out Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and regulators, accusing them of failing to address systemic issues in the sector.
At the same time, he urged the Matatu Association of Kenya to avoid excessive fare increases as fuel prices rise.
The debate now places renewed focus on Kenya’s fuel pricing system, with growing calls for structural tax reforms and tighter regulation.










