On Tuesday, May 19, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged Kenyans to continue pushing for lower fuel prices despite the decision by transport stakeholders to suspend the nationwide matatu strike for one week.
Speaking while in London, Gachagua argued that the temporary suspension of the strike could derail efforts aimed at pressuring the government to address the rising cost of fuel.
He maintained that Kenyans should continue agitating for reduced fuel prices until their concerns are fully addressed.
Gachagua urges Kenyans to continue pushing for lower fuel prices despite strike suspension. Photo: Courtesy.
The former Deputy President expressed skepticism over the ongoing negotiations between the government and transport operators, suggesting that the pause in the strike may not necessarily result in meaningful discussions on lowering fuel costs.
At the same time, Gachagua condemned incidents of violence, destruction of property and attacks on individuals reported during the protests.
He accused the government of allowing alleged goons to infiltrate the demonstrations and intimidate citizens during the unrest.
Gachagua moreover accused Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen of allegedly attempting to ethnicise the nationwide protests instead of addressing the concerns raised by Kenyans over the rising cost of fuel.
He maintained that the demonstrations reflected widespread public frustration, saying many citizens had reached their economic limit due to the high cost of living.
The former DP also criticised President Ruto for focusing on foreign trips instead of addressing domestic challenges affecting ordinary Kenyans.
The DCP leader further blamed the government-to-government fuel import deal for the increase in fuel prices and called for the removal of VAT on fuel as well as reduced margins by oil marketing companies to ease the burden on consumers.
His remarks came shortly after stakeholders in the public transport sector announced the suspension of the nationwide strike and fuel protests for one week to pave the way for negotiations with the government.
The operators are demanding a reduction of diesel prices by Ksh36 per litre, arguing that the current fuel costs have significantly increased operating expenses and made it difficult for transport businesses to remain sustainable.
