The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has sharply criticized the government following the recent spike in fuel prices, accusing it of unfairly burdening motorists and ignoring global market trends.
In a statement released on July 17, MAK expressed outrage over the increase in pump prices, noting that the adjustments came despite global crude oil prices remaining below $70 per barrel. The association singled out the Ministry of Energy and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) for what it termed as unjustified and abrupt pricing decisions.
“The sudden hike Super Petrol by KSh 8.99 and Diesel by KSh 8.67 per litre caught motorists off guard. It’s not only shocking but economically punishing,” the statement read. “When global prices dropped, local fuel prices barely moved, decreasing by a mere one shilling. That was an insult to millions of Kenyan motorists already struggling under the weight of heavy taxation.”
According to MAK, taxes now make up nearly half the cost of fuel in Kenya, a situation they argue is economically unsustainable and ethically questionable.
In response, the association issued several demands aimed at restoring fairness and transparency in the fuel pricing system. Key among them is a call for the government to revert to a free market framework, allowing global oil trends and competition among suppliers to naturally determine pump prices.
MAK also advocated for the return of the Open Tender System (OTS), which previously allowed oil to be sourced from the most cost-effective suppliers, ensuring fair distribution and lower consumer prices.
“If these calls are ignored, motorists will have no option but to pursue peaceful protests and legal action to protect their right to just and transparent fuel pricing,” the statement warned.
The association went further to highlight additional concerns plaguing the fuel sector, including the alleged manipulation of oil marketers’ margins to the detriment of consumers. MAK accused the Energy Ministry and EPRA of failing to hold fuel distributors accountable for quality, especially in cases involving adulterated products.
“When rogue dealers are caught, they are slapped with minor fines while motorists are left to deal with damaged vehicles and no compensation,” the statement noted.
MAK also raised alarm over fuel sold by leading marketers reportedly falling below recommended octane levels, arguing that such issues compromise vehicle performance and public safety.
As discontent grows among motorists, pressure is mounting on authorities to revisit current fuel pricing structures and institute reforms that prioritize fairness, affordability, and consumer protection.
