“Explain The Math”- Motorists Threaten Demos Over Latest EPRA Fuel Increases

The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has threatened to organize peaceful demonstrations following the latest pump price upward adjustments by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).

The lobby group is demanding an independent review of EPRA’s pricing formula, an official audit of the government-to-government (G-to-G) oil import arrangement, and full disclosure of freight and landing charges used to calculate domestic retail prices.

The pushback follows EPRA’s monthly review taking effect on October 15, 2026, which raised Super Petrol by KSh 12.93 per liter, Diesel by KSh 9.90, and Kerosene by KSh 28.49. In Nairobi, Super Petrol now retails at KSh 226.96 per liter, Diesel at KSh 227.76, and Kerosene at KSh 219.87. The maximum pump prices will remain in effect through November 14, 2026.

Discrepancies in Landing Costs vs. Retail Rates

In a formal statement, MAK challenged the technical rationale behind the adjustments, alleging a disconnect between reported import costs and final consumer prices.

Specifically, the association pointed out that while the landed cost of kerosene increased by 9.41 percent, its retail pump price jumped by 14.89 percent. MAK has called on energy regulators to publish a line-item breakdown explaining the discrepancy, warning that elevated fuel costs are compounding inflation and driving up the cost of living across key transport and manufacturing sectors.

The controversy follows statements by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accusing the state of artificially inflating fuel margins, claims that Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi subsequently refuted.