Opposition threatens mass action over fuel crisis, demands cancelation of G-to-G deal

Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Eugene Wamalwa and Justin Muturi on Wednesday convened a press conference, where they faulted the Head of State for the fuel crisis that has led to an increase in petrol and diesel prices. 

On Tuesday, Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raised fuel prices. The price of petrol in Nairobi went up by Ksh.28.69 to Ksh.206.97 per litre, and diesel had shot up by an eye-watering Ksh.40.30 to Ksh.206.84 per litre.

According to the opposition, the hike in fuel prices is a result of irregularities in the petroleum importation procedures under the Government-to-Government framework. 

“Kenyans are demanding that you [President Ruto] immediately stop living your dream and utopia and face reality, put Wanjiku first,” the opposition said in a statement read by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. 

The opposition demanded that President Ruto direct a special sitting in parliament to address the fuel crisis. 

“Failure to which the united government shall call for national mass action,” he said. 

Among the issues that the opposition wants parliament to address is the G-to-G framework, which it termed ineffective. 

“Cancel the Government to Government – Petroleum Framework as it involves handpicked Oil Marketing Companies that represent Mr.William Ruto’s interests,” the opposition said. 

On his part, Wamalwa, the Democratic Action Party leader, claimed the Head of State is a major beneficiary of the fuel importation framework. 

“The G-to-G is Government-to-Gangsters,” said Wamalwa. 

He demanded the reduction of VAT on fuel and the fuel levy to reduce fuel costs. 

Former Cabinet Secretary warned that Kenya was headed in the wrong direction, urging citizens and state officers to share any information on misconduct in the oil sector. 

The G-to-G framework, initiated by the Kenyan government in 2023, allows the state to directly import fuel from designated suppliers. The government took the approach to bypass private tender systems, ensure supply stability and reduce foreign exchange pressure.