ODM leader Oburu Oginga has called for urgent government intervention to ease the burden of rising fuel prices, saying the continued increase is hurting households, businesses and the transport sector across the country.
Speaking during an ODM Nyanza Consultative Forum in Kisumu, Oburu acknowledged the growing public frustration over the high cost of fuel, but attributed the spike largely to global geopolitical tensions affecting international oil markets.
The ODM leader pointed to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and tensions linked to global oil supply chains as some of the major factors pushing fuel prices upward internationally.
“Things are not okay; you can see fuel prices are high everywhere,” Oburu said while addressing party delegates in Kisumu. He assured supporters that discussions were underway to explore possible relief measures for Kenyans struggling with the rising cost of living.
Plans to engage Ruto and Mbadi
Oburu revealed that he plans to hold talks with President William Ruto and Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi to discuss possible reductions in fuel-related taxes and other interventions aimed at stabilising prices.
According to him, the government needs to move quickly to cushion ordinary wananchi from the economic pressure caused by the latest fuel review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
“We know people are suffering because of the high fuel prices and we are going to engage the government so that relief measures can be considered,” Oburu stated.
His remarks come amid growing concerns from transport operators and businesses, with some groups already threatening demonstrations and nationwide strikes over the sharp rise in pump prices.
Fuel prices continue to rise
The latest EPRA review saw fuel prices increase significantly across the country, with diesel recording one of the sharpest jumps in recent months. In Nairobi, super petrol is now retailing above KSh214 per litre while diesel has crossed KSh242 per litre.
The rising prices have triggered widespread debate online and among stakeholders, with many Kenyans expressing concern over the impact on transport costs, food prices and the overall economy.
Pressure mounts on government
Oburu’s call adds to growing pressure on the Kenya Kwanza administration to introduce fresh interventions as fuel prices continue to climb.
Several leaders and industry players have proposed tax reductions, subsidies and review of levies imposed on petroleum products as possible ways of easing the burden on consumers.
The ODM leader maintained that while global events may have contributed to the crisis, the government still has a responsibility to protect citizens from the harsh economic effects being experienced across the country.
