Siaya Governor James Orengo has called for an immediate reduction in fuel prices, describing the current cost of fuel in Kenya as “unjustified and unreasonable” compared to neighbouring countries.
Speaking in Oyugis, Orengo said the high fuel prices are worsening the cost of living and crippling small businesses and household incomes across the country.
He argued that Kenya’s fuel prices remain significantly higher than those in the region.
“There is no reason why Kenyans should suffer this much when neighbouring countries are paying far less for fuel,” Orengo said.
He added that the impact is being felt at the grassroots level, especially among small traders and transport operators.
“Even a mama mboga cannot travel to Homa Bay, and boda boda operators are unable to sustain their trade,” he said.
The governor warned that the rising fuel costs have triggered a ripple effect across the economy, pushing up transport fares and reducing mobility for traders and ordinary citizens who rely on daily movement for income.
Orengo also took issue with the national leadership over its response to the crisis, saying Kenyans should not be left waiting for presidential intervention.
“We are told that CS John Mbadi said in the morning that they are waiting for President William Ruto to return and address the issue of fuel prices. We cannot wait for Ruto,” he said.
“We will determine the future and destiny of this country,” Orengo added.
President William Ruto is expected to chair a high-level meeting on fuel prices upon his return from an official visit to Azerbaijan.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi had, in the morning, said the government is considering fresh measures to cushion Kenyans from the impact of rising fuel prices.
“We can only hope that this war will end, but even as we hope, we must make certain decisions. I am sure the government will sit again once the president returns to assess what more can be done,” Mbadi said.
The remarks come amid growing public concern over fuel prices, which have led to increased transport costs across the country, affecting commuters, traders, and small-scale businesses.
During his tour, Orengo made impromptu stopovers in Kadongo and Ringa (Kojwach) in Kabondo Kasipul, where he engaged residents on their economic challenges before concluding his day in Oyugis Town in Kasipul Constituency.
He also accused some ODM leaders of attempting to betray party leader Raila Odinga’s legacy, claiming there were efforts to “auction” the party for personal gain.
“We will stand our ground to ensure that we get what we want. I have come out like Raila used to, to ensure that the community gets what it rightly deserves and to defend the rights of the people,” he said.
Orengo further lamented that whenever political gatherings are held, his name is often subjected to insults.
“I have worked with Raila all through, even during demonstrations and court battles. I have always been there when called upon. Where are some of them now, taking?” he added.
He referenced the grassroots mobilisation under the “Linda Mwananchi” initiative, describing it as an “unstoppable movement” that cannot be halted.
“To ensure our community and this nation get the fearless, unwavering leadership we deserve, I am officially offering myself to lead this country,” he said.
