Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday broke his silence regarding the increased fuel prices announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Gachagua, making his first statement after jetting into the country from a working trip in Colombia, explained that a spike in oil prices was a global issue and called on Kenyans to be patient as the government works to resolve the issue.
“With deep respect, I would like to plead with the people of Kenya to appreciate that the issue of fuel prices is a worldwide challenge. Things will get better as we move along,” the DP stated.
He explained that the government was aware of and is sensitive to the challenges Kenyans are facing due to the high cost of living.
“President William Ruto remains committed to finding lasting and sustainable solutions to the economic challenges that face our great nation,” he promised.
He went ahead to reprimand Cabinet Secretaries and advisors who have been accused of being indifferent to the challenges Kenyans are facing.
The DP in apparent reference to Trade CS Moses Kuria and President William Ruto's economic advisor David Ndii, noted that their comments were reckless and do not in any way represent official government position or President William Ruto's.
Gachagua revealed that even when he was outside the country, he was observing proceedings and questioned the wisdom in the route the two leaders had taken to address the sensitive issue.
He explained that it was a privilege to serve Kenyans and as so, leaders should not be insensitive and talk down on people.
“You do not address your employer with arrogance. Do so with humility and decorum,” Gachagua advised.
Kuria in a statement on Friday, had asked Kenyans to get used to high fuel prices as the trend would continue up to February 2024.
On his part, David Ndii explained that politicians had lied to Kenyans and there was no formula in the short term of bringing down the cost of fuel.
