Ruto Speaks Out on Fuel Price Hike

President William Ruto has finally come out of the shadows after the recent spike in fuel prices, promising Kenyans that the government has made provisions for them against the increasing price of petroleum products.

Amid rising concern among Kenyans, William Ruto said global fuel prices remain a major challenge and noted that Kenya is no exception.

He assured citizens that the government has implemented various measures to address the issue.

“We have many challenges in this world. There was one particular challenge that fuel-related issues were really bothering us. But, thanks to God, we were able to come up with the G2G program, which helped us save our country, Kenya,” explained President Ruto while referring to the G2G program implemented by the government for importing fuel.

President Ruto further stated that the G2G program has been instrumental in safeguarding Kenya against the shock of fuel prices, with other nations wanting to know how Kenya tackled the problem.

Government Interventions to Stabilize Prices

Ruto revealed that despite the current increase, the government has implemented several interventions aimed at preventing a steeper rise in fuel costs.

He disclosed that billions of shillings have been deployed to subsidize fuel and ease the burden on consumers.

“Even now we have a major fuel challenge. Fuel prices have increased everywhere. But here in Kenya, we have planned properly to ensure that the price that would have risen significantly is moderated,” he stated.

The President added: “We have released government funds, Ksh 6.5 billion, to subsidize fuel here in Kenya. We have also reduced VAT to ensure that we moderate fuel costs in the country.”

He reassured Kenyans that the government would continue to intervene where necessary to prevent excessive pricing and protect households and businesses from economic strain.

Assurance on Supply and Economic Stability

Addressing concerns over fuel shortages, Ruto insisted that Kenya currently has sufficient fuel stocks, contrasting the situation with other countries facing acute shortages.

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“There are countries that do not even have fuel in their pumps. Here in Kenya, we have enough fuel. First, we have ensured availability, and secondly, we have implemented subsidies so that the highest costs do not reach our citizens,” he said.

He further noted that Kenya’s fuel pricing remains competitive compared to other countries in the region, attributing this to the G2G arrangement and fiscal measures undertaken by the government.

“We are going as a nation to make sure that we cushion the people of Kenya from high fuel prices. The G2G arrangement has made Kenya a very competitive fuel destination. You cannot compare our fuel prices with our region or other countries,” Ruto added.

Also Read:EPRA Raises Fuel Prices: Petrol Up Ksh 28, Diesel Ksh 40 for April–May Cycle

Call for Unity and Continued Progress

Beyond the fuel issue, the President used the opportunity to call for national unity and sustained development, linking economic stability to political cooperation.

“We will continue working tirelessly as the Government of Kenya to cushion our economy, our transport sector, and ensure Kenya remains competitive as we drive transformation,” he said.

Ruto also pointed to the formation of a broad-based government as a key step in fostering unity and eliminating divisions within the country.

“We had different political alignments, but for the sake of uniting our nation, we formed a broad-based government bringing together ODM, UDA, and others to eliminate hatred, tribalism, and discrimination so that Kenya becomes one,” he concluded.

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