Speaking during a public engagement, Kindiki said it was unfair and politically motivated for critics to place the blame entirely on President William Ruto’s government, arguing that international market forces had significantly pushed up the cost of petroleum products across many countries.
The Deputy President noted that Kenya imports all its fuel and therefore remains vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and currency exchange rates.
According to him, recent increases in fuel prices were being experienced worldwide and were not unique to Kenya.
Kindiki accused some opposition leaders of exploiting public frustration for political gain by spreading what he termed as “misleading and inflammatory narratives” aimed at inciting Kenyans against the government.
He maintained that the administration had already taken several measures to cushion citizens from the impact of high fuel prices.
He pointed to government to government fuel import arrangements introduced by the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the framework had helped stabilize the supply of petroleum products and protected the country from more severe price shocks.
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Without the intervention, Kindiki argued, fuel prices would have risen even higher.
The Deputy President further defended the government’s tax policies, saying the administration was balancing between raising revenue for development and protecting consumers from economic hardship.
He acknowledged that Kenyans were facing tough economic times but insisted that the government remained committed to finding sustainable solutions.
Kindiki also urged transport operators and traders not to exploit the fuel price hikes by imposing unreasonable charges on wananchi.
He called for patience, assuring citizens that the government was working to strengthen the economy and stabilize the Kenyan shilling, which he said would eventually ease pressure on fuel costs.
At the same time, the Deputy President appealed for calm amid growing public anger over the rising cost of living, warning against attempts to incite protests or unrest.
He said constructive dialogue was necessary to address the challenges facing the country instead of political confrontation.
His remarks come amid growing debate over the latest fuel price adjustments announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which triggered criticism from opposition politicians, civil society groups, and sections of the public.
Even so, Kindiki insisted that the Kenya Kwanza administration should not be unfairly condemned for a crisis influenced by global economic realities beyond Kenya’s control.
He reiterated that the government would continue implementing policies aimed at stabilizing the economy while protecting vulnerable households from further hardship
