Kenya: Gachagua Projects Sh12 Spike in Pump Prices Citing 'Ruthless' Scheme

What the report says

Former Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto’s administration of planning a sharp increase in fuel prices, saying petrol could rise by Sh12 per litre and diesel by Sh9. The claims were reported by Capital FM and distributed by AllAfrica, with Gachagua linking the alleged increases to political fundraising and mobilisation ahead of Kenya’s 2027 general election. He also named Gulf Energy and Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi in his allegations, though the reported article said the claims were not independently verified.

The comments came as Kenyans were waiting for the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s latest pump-price review, scheduled for Wednesday, which would set prices for the period beginning October 15. Under the previous monthly cap, petrol in Nairobi was Sh214.03 per litre and diesel Sh217.86 per litre. The review was expected to reflect changes in import costs and other pricing inputs used by the regulator.

The government has said higher international oil prices have been driven by global market disruption linked to the Middle East conflict, including shipping delays, pipeline and terminal interruptions, and higher insurance costs. Energy officials have also said Kenya still has sufficient fuel stocks and that additional cargoes are expected. As a general matter, pump-price changes in Kenya can affect transport costs, food prices and broader living expenses, which is why the EPRA decision was being closely watched.