UDA Defends State Response to Fuel Prices, Blames Global Pressures and Political Criticism

 

UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar (second left) addresses the media in Nairobi as the United Democratic Alliance defends the government’s handling of rising fuel prices.

By: Gladys Karuga 

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has come out strongly in defence of the government’s handling of the current fuel price situation, linking rising pump costs to global disruptions while accusing opposition leaders of turning the issue into a political tool.

Speaking in Nairobi, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar said the Kenya Kwanza administration had implemented targeted measures to shield consumers from escalating fuel prices, dismissing assertions that local policies were to blame for the crisis.

Omar stated that the government had released KSh 6.2 billion from the Petroleum Development Levy Fund to stabilise prices. He also pointed to the reduction of Value Added Tax on petroleum products from 16 percent to 8 percent, noting that the move had helped moderate pump prices, with super petrol retailing at KSh 197.60, diesel at KSh 196.63 and kerosene at KSh 152.78.

According to him, the pressures on fuel prices are largely driven by international factors, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted supply chains and affected global oil markets.

He further defended the government-to-government fuel import arrangement, saying it has ensured consistent supply while easing demand for the US dollar. Omar explained that the system has reduced pressure on the foreign exchange market by limiting the need for multiple oil marketers to source dollars independently.

At the same time, he criticised leaders who have recently opposed the arrangement, arguing that some had initially supported it when it was introduced in 2023 and later upheld through legal processes.

Omar warned against fuel importation outside the government-backed framework, terming it illegal and non-compliant with procurement laws. He added that such practices would have significantly driven up fuel prices, potentially pushing petrol to KSh 236 and diesel to KSh 260.

The UDA official also dismissed concerns over a possible fuel shortage, assuring that the country has adequate reserves. He clarified that a shipment delayed due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz had been replaced with alternative cargo at no additional cost, maintaining supply stability.

Addressing calls for mass protests by opposition figures, Omar described the proposals as misguided and out of touch with the broader global context influencing fuel prices.

He also reiterated support for key government initiatives such as the National Infrastructure Fund, the Affordable Housing Levy and increased National Social Security Fund contributions, saying they are critical to long-term economic growth.

Omar expressed confidence in Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, urging them to stay focused despite mounting criticism.

He concluded by affirming the government’s resolve to continue cushioning Kenyans from global oil shocks while pursuing sustainable, long-term energy solutions, including regional cooperation.

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