Siaya Governor James Orengo sharply criticized the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) following the latest fuel price increase, accusing the regulator of undermining public trust and burdening Kenyans with opaque policies.
In a strongly worded statement, Orengo described the current economic environment as “a masterclass in gaslighting the Kenyan taxpayer,” arguing that the recent price hike comes at a time when motorists are already grappling with concerns over contaminated fuel in the market.
“It is a cruel irony to be warned about bad fuel while being forced to pay a premium for the privilege of taking that risk,” he said, referencing recent complaints by motorists over substandard petroleum products.
The governor noted that the impact of rising fuel costs extends beyond motorists, affecting public transport users and driving up the cost of basic commodities across the country.
According to Orengo, the burden ultimately falls on ordinary citizens, who are already struggling with the high cost of living.
At the center of his criticism is EPRA’s pricing mechanism, which he claims lacks transparency.
Orengo called on the authority to immediately publish its Cost of Service Study and provide a clear explanation for what he termed as “phased margin revisions” being implemented without adequate public disclosure.
“If electricity tariffs require public participation, then the lifeblood of our transport sector should not be managed behind closed doors,” he said.
Orengo further questioned the effectiveness of administrative price controls in protecting consumers, arguing that such systems are often influenced by industry players with vested interests.
He warned that this creates a cycle of artificial inflation that stifles efficiency and competition.
Instead, he proposed a shift toward a more liberalized petroleum market, where competitive pricing would replace centrally determined margins.
He argued that increased competition would enhance efficiency and shield consumers from unjustified cost escalations.
“The frustration has reached a boiling point,” Orengo said, urging Kenyans to demand greater accountability from regulators.
“The only way forward is to insist on transparency over opacity and competition over administrative control.”
His remarks add to growing public concern over fuel pricing and regulatory accountability in Kenya, as citizens continue to feel the ripple effects of rising energy costs on daily life.
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