Relief for Kenyans as court blocks govt's 10pc crude oil import levy

The court ruled that the government failed to engage the public and Parliament in a matter that directly affects the price of essential commodities and the lives of ordinary citizens.

Justice Mwamuye noted that any decision by the government to apply, stay, or adopt measures under the East African Community (EAC) Common Market framework must undergo proper public participation and parliamentary scrutiny Failure to do so, he said, violates the Constitution.

The court further stopped the government from enforcing the EAC Gazette Notice dated 30 June 2024, which had introduced the 10 percent import duty on crude oil entering Kenya.

The ruling now blocks the implementation of the levy, which had contributed to the increase in fuel and related commodity prices.