Ruto Urged to Slash Fuel Prices as Bungoma, Trans Nzoia Leaders Decry Rising Cost of Living

Political leaders and officials from Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties have called on President William Ruto to urgently reduce fuel prices and review taxes amid mounting public pressure over the high cost of living.

Speaking to journalists in Kitale Town on Thursday, Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi’s Personal Assistant, Shaban Sakwa, said the ongoing economic crisis continues to affect all Kenyans regardless of their political affiliation and requires immediate government intervention.

Sakwa urged the President to standardize fuel prices and engage global fuel suppliers in efforts aimed at cushioning households from the escalating cost of essential commodities and transport.

He noted that the public uproar witnessed over the past two days had resulted in massive losses to businesses and transport operators across the country. “Immediate interventional measures need to be initiated by His Excellency the President at a personal level,” Sakwa said.

He further called for the fast-tracking of fuel stabilization funds to help lower taxes imposed on petroleum products.

At the same time, Bungoma County senatorial aspirant John Wanyama appealed to the Kenya Kwanza administration to reconsider its taxation policies, which he claimed have contributed to inflated fuel pump prices.

Wanyama maintained that leadership should focus on protecting citizens from economic hardship rather than worsening their suffering through increased taxes.

The leaders’ demands come amid nationwide transport disruptions and public protests triggered by rising fuel prices, which have in turn pushed up the cost of public transport and basic commodities.

Sakwa expressed optimism that President Ruto would respond positively to the concerns raised by Kenyans and announce measures to reduce fuel prices.

He also disclosed that Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi had fully recovered from illness and would soon resume official duties.

“The MP has fully recovered and will continue discharging his obligation of representing his constituents in the August House. He will also be defending his seat during next year’s elections,” Sakwa said.

On the 2027 General Election, Sakwa expressed confidence that many residents in Kwanza Constituency would support President Ruto’s bid for re-election to enable him complete his development agenda.