Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, the party’s Secretary-General Hassan Omar Hassan defended the administration of President William Ruto, stating that the recent surge in fuel prices and the resulting transport challenges were largely driven by global geopolitical tensions rather than domestic policy failures.
He argued that the situation affecting fuel supply and pricing is part of broader international economic pressures that have impacted many countries, not just Kenya.
“The sharp rise in fuel prices is not unique to Kenya. It is a global issue influenced by geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in the international oil market,” he said during the briefing.
Hassan Omar further maintained that the government had taken steps to cushion Kenyans from the full impact of the rising fuel costs, including regulatory measures aimed at stabilising prices where possible.
He cautioned opposition leaders against what he termed as politicising economic challenges facing the country, saying such actions risk misleading the public and escalating tensions at a time when calm and collective solutions are needed.
According to the ruling party, attempts to frame the fuel crisis as a result of government mismanagement are misleading and do not reflect the complex global factors influencing energy prices.
The UDA Secretary-General noted that public transport disruptions witnessed in various parts of the country are a direct consequence of fuel price fluctuations, which have affected operating costs for transport operators, including matatus, taxis, and logistics companies.
He reiterated that the government remains committed to engaging stakeholders in the transport and energy sectors to find sustainable solutions to the crisis while protecting consumers from further economic strain.
The remarks come at a time when the country is experiencing heightened political debate over the rising cost of living, with opposition leaders accusing the government of failing to effectively manage fuel pricing and its impact on households and businesses.