Kenya’s Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has defended the government’s position regarding the increasing fuel prices, assuring the public that measures are being implemented to alleviate the financial strain.
During an inspection of development projects in Meru County on May 15, 2026, Kindiki expressed the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment to protect households and businesses from the impacts of global oil supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Persian Gulf.
He highlighted that the government has already initiated crucial interventions, such as lowering the Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel from 16% to 8% and allocating Ksh5 billion for fuel subsidies.
“The surge in fuel, insurance, and shipping costs is a direct consequence of the conflict in Iran. We are taking all necessary actions to stabilize prices and minimize the burden on Kenyans,” Kindiki stated.
Acknowledging the worldwide effects of rising oil prices, he emphasized Kenya’s dedication to shielding consumers from the adverse impacts of this crisis. “We are exploring additional strategies to protect Kenyans from escalating fuel costs. We want to ensure that citizens are not adversely affected by high transport fares and the overall cost of living,” he added.
Commitment to Ongoing Projects
Kindiki urged citizens to be patient as the government develops further initiatives to support households and businesses facing economic challenges.
After inspecting the nearly completed Nkubu–Rubiri–Kamurita road and the Rubiri Last Mile Electricity Connection Project, he reassured the community that all ongoing infrastructure projects in Meru County would be finished on time. He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing livelihoods through infrastructure development.
“Meru County is set to benefit significantly from the national road construction initiative, with over Ksh39 billion allocated for both stalled and new road projects across various constituencies,” the Deputy President noted. He also revealed plans to invest an additional Ksh3.7 billion for upgrading 17 kilometers of link roads in Meru town, aiming to elevate its status to that of a city.
Furthermore, he announced that Ksh1.3 billion has been allocated under the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Programme to connect approximately 16,000 households in the county to electricity.
“We are dedicated to transforming the lives of Meru’s residents. All these projects will adhere to the established timelines,” he affirmed.
Political Landscape Ahead of ElectionsAdditionally
, Kindiki challenged political opponents to engage in a constructive political discourse as the next general election approaches. He stated that the Kenya Kwanza administration will focus its campaign on its development achievements and the benefits delivered to citizens, rather than on baseless claims.
“When we return next year to seek your support, we will showcase our accomplishments over the past five years. Our rivals must also account for their records while they were in power,” he remarked.
The Deputy President was joined by Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia, Senator Kathuri Murungi, MPs Shadrack Mwiti (South Imenti) and Moses Kirima (Imenti Central), as well as local leaders and members of the County Assembly.