Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has assured Kenyans that the government is actively seeking solutions to the ongoing fuel crisis that triggered a nationwide matatu strike and disrupted transport services across the country.
Speaking on Monday in Wajir during the launch of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy programme, Wandayi said the government was aware of the challenges caused by the rising fuel prices and was committed to finding lasting interventions to ease the burden on citizens.
“I want to assure Kenyans that the National Government under the leadership of President William Ruto is serious about finding a solution to this matter,” Wandayi said.
Government to Hold Talks With Matatu Operators
The CS revealed that his ministry, alongside the Ministry of Transport led by Davis Chirchir, would hold talks with leaders from the matatu sector in an effort to resolve the standoff and restore normal transport operations.
“We will listen to the leaders from the matatu sector, hear their grievances, then discuss and chart the way forward on this matter. That is the only way we will be able to tackle this challenge that we are currently facing as a country,” he added.
His remarks came as thousands of commuters across major towns and cities were left stranded on Monday morning after matatu operators launched a nationwide strike over the sharp increase in fuel prices announced last week.
Most public service vehicles remained parked in depots and residential areas as transport operators, private motorists and ride-hailing drivers joined the protest against the rising cost of fuel.
Governor Ahmed Abdullahi Defends Government
During the event, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi defended the government, saying the fuel price increases were part of a wider global crisis linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
“I know you’ve taken quite some heat because of the fuel prices, but this is a global problem. Even oil-producing countries are experiencing significant increases in petroleum prices,” the governor said.
However, Abdullahi urged the government to consider additional relief measures, including temporarily suspending some taxes imposed on petroleum products to cushion Kenyans from the rising cost of living.
“Even if it means suspending more taxes on oil products temporarily, the government should consider it because fuel affects transport, industries, electricity bills and the overall cost of living,” he added.
Ruto Expected to Chair Fuel Crisis Meeting
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi also disclosed that President William Ruto is expected to chair a high-level meeting on fuel prices once he returns from an official visit to Azerbaijan.
Mbadi said the government was exploring additional measures aimed at cushioning Kenyans from the impact of the fuel price hikes.
“We can only hope that this war will end, but even as we hope, the government must make decisions. Once the President returns, discussions will continue on what more can be done,” Mbadi said.
