By Joshua Otieno | April 5, 2026
President William Ruto has intensified his warning against alleged cartels in the oil sector, vowing decisive action as part of a broader crackdown on middlemen accused of undermining the economy.
Speaking amid growing public concern over the cost of fuel, the President signaled a tougher stance, stating that the government will deal with entrenched interests in the energy sector in the same way it has handled similar groups in other industries. He has consistently linked economic challenges to networks of brokers operating in key sectors such as agriculture, coffee, and energy.
The remarks draw parallels with previous interventions in the sugar industry and the fertilizer subsidy programme, where authorities took action against individuals accused of hoarding commodities and distributing substandard inputs. The administration has maintained that such measures are necessary to protect consumers and stabilize markets.
In the oil sector, the government attributes high pump prices not only to global market forces but also to inefficiencies and manipulation within the importation and distribution chain. The President has defended the Government-to-Government fuel import deal with Gulf suppliers, arguing that it has helped stabilize the Kenyan shilling and ensure steady supply.
As of the March 15 to April 14, 2026 pricing cycle, fuel prices in Nairobi remain unchanged, with Super Petrol retailing at KSh 178.28 per litre, Diesel at KSh 166.54, and Kerosene at KSh 152.78. These figures reflect relative stability compared to the historic highs recorded in 2023.
However, analysts note that taxes and levies account for nearly half of the pump price, with charges such as Value Added Tax, Road Maintenance Levy, and excise duty significantly increasing the final cost to consumers.
Recent developments, including a multi-billion shilling scandal involving substandard fuel and alleged hoarding, have further fueled concerns about the role of cartels in the sector. The controversy has led to heightened scrutiny of regulatory agencies and renewed calls for transparency.
The government is now considering policy adjustments, including a shift from percentage-based VAT to a fixed-rate tax system, in a bid to provide more predictable relief to consumers.
As the debate continues, the President’s hardline stance signals an ongoing push to restructure key sectors of the economy, even as questions persist over the most effective path to lowering the cost of living for Kenyans.
