UDA Defends Government Measures Amid Rising Fuel Costs, Blames Opposition for ‘Politicising’ Global Crisis
Nairobi, April 16, 2026 — The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has defended the government’s handling of rising fuel prices, accusing opposition leaders of misleading the public and politicising what it described as a global energy crisis.
Speaking during a press briefing, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar dismissed recent opposition claims on fuel pricing as “deceitful and misleading,” arguing that the current situation is driven by international market dynamics rather than domestic policy failures.
Omar said Kenya, like many import-dependent economies, is grappling with the ripple effects of global energy market disruptions, particularly those linked to geopolitical tensions and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He maintained that the government has taken deliberate steps to cushion consumers from escalating fuel costs.
Among the measures highlighted is the use of the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) Fund, which has released KSh 6.2 billion to stabilise pump prices. Additionally, the government reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16 percent to 8 percent. As a result, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene are currently retailing at KSh 197.60, KSh 196.63 and KSh 152.78 respectively.
The UDA SG further defended the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel import arrangement, saying it has ensured a steady supply of petroleum products while easing pressure on the US dollar and stabilising the exchange rate. He noted that the framework has reduced speculative demand for foreign currency by oil marketing companies.
Omar also criticised unnamed opposition figures, including a former Deputy President, accusing them of shifting positions for political convenience. He claimed that some of the same leaders had previously supported and facilitated the G-to-G agreement during its inception in 2023.
On recent concerns over fuel imports outside the G-to-G framework, the UDA official termed the move illegal and costly, noting that such imports were priced significantly higher and involved substandard products. He said the cancellation of the imports spared Kenyans from potentially higher pump prices, which could have risen to over KSh 230 per litre.
Addressing fears of fuel shortages, Omar dismissed reports of supply disruptions, stating that Kenya has maintained adequate fuel stocks. He clarified that while a shipment was delayed due to conflict in the Middle East, alternative vessels were secured without additional cost and deliveries were completed within schedule in March.
The UDA also criticised calls by opposition leaders for mass protests over fuel prices, terming them misguided and disconnected from global economic realities. Omar argued that petroleum pricing in Kenya is largely influenced by international factors beyond government control.
At the same time, the party defended key government programmes such as the National Infrastructure Fund and the Affordable Housing Levy, warning that proposals to scrap them could undermine long-term economic growth and infrastructure development.
Omar reaffirmed UDA’s confidence in Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, urging them to remain focused despite criticism.
He concluded by commending the government for what he described as “progressive interventions” aimed at shielding Kenyans from the impact of global oil price shocks.
