Orange Democratic Movement leader Oburu Odinga stated that his party is communicating with top government officials to protect Kenyans from escalating fuel prices and increasing living expenses.
Following political gatherings in Nyakach and a Luo Nyanza delegates’ meeting in Kisumu, Oburu recognized the mounting economic strain affecting families nationwide, noting that ODM was advocating for immediate action.
“We are acutely aware of the current cost of living crisis. The persistent increase in fuel costs places a significant burden on every household,” he stated.
Kenyans are experiencing heightened cost of living pressures following recent fuel price hikes that increased petrol and diesel costs, causing worry among families, enterprises, and transportation industry participants about broader economic repercussions.
The authorities raised the retail prices for diesel and super petrol by Sh46.29 and Sh16.65 per liter, respectively.
According to a Thursday statement from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), kerosene prices will stay constant during the review period covering May 15 to June 14, 2026.
Transport operators have felt the effects immediately. Nairobi-based driver Solomon Kinuthia reports that increasing fuel expenses are complicating daily operations and necessitating frequent adjustments to income and planning.
“The fuel situation is pushing us into a faster pace,” he explained. “Last month we were charged an additional 30 shillings, which times 40 liters equals 1,200 shillings daily for me. After a month, we now face an increase of 46 shillings times 40, which amounts to nearly 1,800 shillings.”
He mentioned that the higher costs are diminishing already small profit margins and sparking conversations between operators and vehicle owners about fare adjustments.
“Now I’m respectfully asking conductors whether they will reduce our payments or if passengers will need to pay more fares so that we can at least cover some expenses,” he stated.
Oburu disclosed that the party had officially raised the issue with government officials via Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and promised ongoing discussions with President William Ruto to find immediate relief solutions.
“Rest assured that we are advocating for you in the highest echelons. We have formally presented this pressing matter to government authorities through Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, and I will maintain direct engagement with the President to identify immediate methods to protect all citizens,” he emphasized.
Addressing an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) gathering at Urudi Primary School in Nyakach on Saturday, Mbadi indicated that authorities are contemplating new measures to shield Kenyans from escalating fuel prices, as petroleum costs continue to strain families and enterprises nationwide.
The Cabinet Secretary mentioned that the administration was investigating supplementary approaches, including additional tax modifications and fuel stabilization initiatives, to alleviate the load on consumers.
Mbadi disclosed that the government had already allocated billions of shillings over recent months to protect Kenyans from worldwide fuel price fluctuations but acknowledged that these measures had not completely controlled the increasing expenses.
“The Middle East situation has created fuel shortages and driven up prices. Last month we made significant efforts, allocating Sh. 6.2 billion to stabilize fuel costs. Additionally, we reduced VAT by eight percent,” explained Mbadi.
“This month we have injected an additional Sh5 billion to maintain fuel price stability. However, prices remain elevated,” he added.
Mbadi indicated that the Treasury would consult with President William Ruto regarding potential strategies focused on reducing petroleum product costs.
“Our plan involves meeting with the President to ensure that through all necessary means, we attempt to decrease petroleum prices so that our citizens can experience relief and not endure hardship due to increasing costs,” he stated.
Mbadi justified the government’s position regarding the rising fuel expenses, asserting that the crisis was international rather than specific to Kenya.
He highlighted the United States, among the world’s top oil producers, noting that fuel prices there had also risen dramatically.
“Even in the United States, where fuel is produced, prices for fuel and petroleum products have increased by 60 percent. Globally, prices have risen. However, domestically we must implement all necessary measures,” he emphasized.
He expressed gratitude to residents and party supporters for what he described as a cordial welcome and commended ODM leaders and members for ensuring the events’ success.
Oburu also mobilized party members in anticipation of a gathering planned for May 31 in Kisumu, where ODM intends to address employment, devolution, and economic prospects for its constituents.
“Our steadfast commitment continues to be on achieving concrete results. We will convene in Kisumu on May 31 to deliberate on how this strategic partnership will generate employment, preserve devolution, and establish lasting opportunities for our members,” he stated.
He concluded by reaffirming ODM’s political aspirations, declaring, “ODM represents the future! We are Ready.”