Members of Parliament on Monday, June 12, met with Ministry of Energy officials to strategise on measures to cushion Kenyans against high fuel prices, which rose to the Ksh180 mark in the previous month.
The meeting convened by the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Energy and a delegation from the Ministry of Energy mainly focused on the government's plans for revenue collection in the sector.
Notably, the meeting was held two days before the monthly fuel review done by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
"The meeting sought to scrutinise internally generated revenue and explore viable measures to curb escalating prices that have burdened consumers countrywide.
"Led by policymakers devoted to ensuring a sustainable and affordable energy sector, the meeting focused on formulating strategies to alleviate the financial strain on Kenyan citizens," read the statement released by Parliament.
Despite the Committee staying clear on the timelines when the strategies would be implemented, the chairperson - Mwala MP Vincent Musyoka- maintained a commitment to reduce the fuel cost.
"The budget presentations provided valuable insights into the financial aspects of the energy sector, enabling the committee to understand the funding requirements, allocation priorities and financial transparency.
"This meeting provides a platform for comprehensive discussions on the challenges faced by consumers about the rising prices of petroleum products," the chair stated.
Fuel prices have risen since January 2023 despite the government opting to import fuel products using the Kenyan shilling instead of the dollar.
While many expected the prices to go down, the government explained that the government-to-government deal with Saudi Arabia aimed to ease pressure on the dollar.
Meanwhile, Kenyans are bracing themselves for increased fuel prices following plans to raise VAT on fuel products from 8 to 16 per cent.
The move was, however, opposed by Azimio La Umoja opposition leaders, who argued that more taxation on fuel products would see other food prices and transportation costs shoot up from July 14, 2023.
“What Ruto told Kenyans was that Uhuru was overtaxing them and that he will ensure taxes come down. Today, taxes are increasing.
"Are you implementing the manifesto that you sold to Kenyans? ODM Chairman John Mbadi posed.
EPRA will announce fuel prices for June/July on Wednesday, June 14.
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