Why Is Ndindi Nyoro Opposing the Fuel Price Hike?
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has strongly criticized the recent rise in fuel prices, disputing the government’s justification and pointing to domestic policy failures. He rejected the Ministry of Energy’s explanation, which linked the increase to global oil prices, stating, “Global oil prices peaked last year, not this year.”
Nyoro argued that the government’s claim does not align with international market data. Instead, he blamed excessive domestic taxation and the securitisation of fuel levies for the rising pump costs. “Out of the total cost per litre, more than KSh 80 for petrol and KSh 76 for other fuels go directly into taxes and levies,” he revealed.
He also noted that in 2023, while global oil prices were dropping, the government quietly introduced a KSh 7-per-litre levy, effectively blocking Kenyans from benefiting from lower international prices.
What Is the Alleged Unconstitutional Borrowing Practice?
Nyoro raised alarms about the government’s decision to borrow KSh 175 billion using fuel levies as collateral without seeking Parliament’s approval. “This borrowing is not captured in official debt records, and Parliament was never consulted. That raises grave concerns about transparency, legality, and long-term fiscal sustainability,” he said.
He questioned who the lenders are, the terms of the loan, and why such a major financial move was kept from both lawmakers and the public. Nyoro warned that borrowing against public levies sets a risky precedent.
How Could This Impact Kenya’s Economic Future?
Nyoro stressed that such borrowing undermines the country’s ability to plan for the future. “We are essentially spending money today that belongs to future budgets. This undermines financial planning for coming administrations and risks mortgaging the country’s revenue streams.”
He added, “If public levies can be used as collateral for debt without oversight, what stops future governments from pledging VAT, PAYE, or even NHIF contributions? This sets a dangerous precedent that threatens Kenya’s financial sovereignty.”
The MP’s remarks have intensified calls for increased accountability in Kenya’s financial governance, especially as the country navigates complex economic challenges.
By Lucky Anyanje
