Former Chief Justice David Maraga has called for urgent intervention to cushion Kenyans from soaring fuel prices and the nationwide transport strike that disrupted movement across the country on Monday.
In a statement released on his social media platforms, Maraga attributed the transport sector paralysis to what he termed “bad governance,” noting that ordinary citizens were unfairly bearing the economic crisis.
“I wish to express my solidarity with Kenyans who have to bear the burden of bad governance that has led to the paralysis of the transport sector today,” Maraga said.
The former Chief Justice acknowledged that global tensions involving Iran had contributed to the fuel crisis but emphasized that responsible governments worldwide were implementing measures to protect citizens from rising living costs.
“Every responsible government is taking steps to cushion their citizens from the high cost of living,” he stated while calling on Parliament to reconvene immediately and implement emergency fuel tax reforms.
Maraga proposed exempting all fuel products from VAT, temporarily suspending fuel levies, and redirecting public funds allegedly lost through corruption to help stabilize fuel prices.
“As a first step, Parliament should convene immediately to exempt all fuel products from VAT, temporarily remove all fuel levies to stabilise fuel prices and redirect more resources being squandered through budgeted corruption to alleviate the energy crisis,” he stated.
His remarks coincided with the nationwide transport strike intensifying, with matatus, buses, truckers, and boda boda operators halting services in protest against escalating fuel costs.
The strike left thousands of commuters stranded in Nairobi and other major towns, with many walking long distances to reach their destinations.
According to the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), Super Petrol prices increased by Sh16.65 per litre and Diesel by Sh46.29, sparking outrage among transport operators and consumers.