National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has asked Kenyans to be patient in the face of soaring cost of living under the Kenya Kwanza government.
Speaking during his visit to the Coastal Counties of Tana River and Kilifi on Sunday, September 17, Wetangula implored citizens to rally behind President William Ruto‘s administration despite the prevailing economic challenges.
In a candid address, he was keen on stressing the importance of allowing elected officials the time and space to execute their duties.
“Let’s stop the demonstrations, politics and opposition so that we can build our country,” said Wetangula, reminding the public that the election period had come to a close.
The former Bungoma Senator also emphasized that the nation’s progress hinges on unity and cooperation.
The remarks by Wetangula came in the wake of widespread public outcry over the high cost of living stemming from the soaring pump prices.
In its latest review, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) on September 14, announced new fuel prices, with a litre of the essential commodity rising to a record high.
According to the new prices Super Petrol increased by Kshs.16.96, Diesel increased by Kshs.21.32 per litre and Kerosene increased by Kshs.33.13 per litre.
This means, “Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene will retail at Kshs.211.64, 200.99 and 202.61 respectively in Nairobi effective midnight.”
“The prices are inclusive of the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020,” EPRA said in a statement.
Following the upward review of the fuel prices, Kenyans are already feeling the ripple effect, with prices of other essential commodities shooting through the roof.
Economists, including President WIlliam Ruto’s Chief advisor David Ndii are already warning of tougher times ahead, attributing the upsurge in fuel prices to global crude oil rates that have also shot up.
Accompanying Wetangula were Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana, as well as Members of Parliament Ali Wario and Innocent Mugabe of Garsen and Likuyani constituencies, respectively.
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Wetangula went on to highlight President Ruto’s commitment to fostering reconciliation, underscoring his willingness to engage in bipartisan discussions with the opposition—a step towards achieving national cohesion.
Wetangula on insecurity
Furthermore, Wetangula addressed the pressing issue of insecurity in Tana River and the neighboring Lamu County.
“I have talked to my Ministry of Interior counterpart Mr. Kindiki, and he has agreed to come and hold talks with you on matters concerning security,” Wetangula told the residents.
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The government, Wetangula assured, is resolutely focused on restoring tranquility in these strife-ridden areas.
He also stressed the vital role of local residents in collaborating with security forces to root out terrorists from the affected regions, underlining the shared responsibility in tackling insecurity.
