NAIROBI, Kenya – Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has hit back at Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua over claims that the government plans to raise fuel prices to generate money for President William Ruto’s political campaigns.
Speaking in West Pokot County on Wednesday, October 14, Wandayi dismissed Gachagua’s allegations and accused the former Deputy President of attacking him and Ruto on tribal grounds.
Wandayi maintained that neither he nor the President determines fuel prices, saying the responsibility rests with the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
“Wamunyoro, Kenya has never lacked fuel, even before the Middle East. Secondly, it is EPRA’s responsibility to set the fuel prices in the country, but I know you cannot understand that because you are a one-term MP who contributed nothing when in Parliament,” Wandayi said.
Wandayi Accuses Gachagua Of Extorting Oil Marketers
The Energy CS also accused Gachagua of being bitter following his impeachment as Deputy President, alleging that he had previously used his position to extort oil marketing companies.
Wandayi challenged the DCP leader to direct his criticism of fuel and electricity policy to him rather than repeatedly attacking the Head of State.
“Before you were impeached as DP, you used to extort oil marketing companies. Ruto is not at your level; if you have issues about fuel and energy, face me, and I will handle you appropriately,” Wandayi said.
He also questioned Gachagua’s understanding of the energy sector, telling him he lacked the capacity to lecture the government on fuel and electricity matters.
Cheruiyot Joins Fuel Price Row
Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot also weighed in on the dispute, criticising Gachagua over his comments on fuel prices.
Cheruiyot argued that fuel pricing was a complex issue, dismissing the former Deputy President’s assessment of the matter.
The exchange comes amid political tensions over the cost of living and the government’s management of fuel prices ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua Alleges Planned Sh12 Petrol Increase
He alleged that the additional revenue would be channelled to Ruto to meet political financing demands during campaigns.
Gachagua further claimed that Wandayi had been instructed to hold a press conference to justify the proposed increases by citing global fuel prices.
In a statement, the DCP leader accused the government of using fuel pricing to raise money for political bribery and urged Kenyans to reject the alleged plan.
Gachagua’s claims about the proposed increases and the alleged political financing scheme were not independently verified in the material provided.
EPRA is responsible for announcing regulated petroleum prices in Kenya. The alleged Sh12 increase in petrol and Sh9 increase in diesel prices would need to be confirmed through an official pricing notice.
