The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has raised concerns over the recent fuel price adjustments, questioning the rationale behind the increase in petrol and diesel prices while kerosene prices were left unchanged.

In a statement on Friday, May 15, 2026, the association argued that the decision exposes inconsistencies in the government’s pricing justification, suggesting that there may not have been sufficient grounds for the sharp rise of fuel costs affecting motorists and businesses.

“The fact that kerosene/paraffin prices were not increased exposes the government’s dishonesty, because it proves there was no genuine justification for raising fuel prices in the first place,” the association said.

New pricing

The remarks come at a time when households and transport operators are grappling with fluctuating pump prices, which continue to influence the cost of transport, food, and basic commodities across the country.

This follows the latest pricing review of fuel announced on Thursday, May 14, indicating that the cost of Super Petrol and Diesel has gone up by Ksh16.65 and Ksh46.29 per litre, respectively, while the price of Kerosene remains unchanged.

In Nairobi, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene now retail at Ksh214.25, Ksh242.92 and Ksh152.78 respectively, effective midnight for the next 30 days.

In Mombasa, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene now retail at Ksh211.09, Ksh239.64 and Ksh149.49 respectively. In Kisumu, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene now retail at Ksh213.91, Ksh243.14 and Ksh153.03 respectively.

Global fuel prices

The increase marks one of the steepest adjustments in recent months, particularly for Diesel, the fuel that powers much of Kenya’s public transport, freight and agricultural sectors.

EPRA attributed the increase to a surge in global fuel prices and higher import costs.

Kerosene, widely used in low-income households, recorded a comparatively modest increase in international cost prices, allowing local pump prices to remain unchanged.

The authority said the government would cushion consumers through the Petroleum Development Levy Fund, deploying approximately Ksh5 billion to subsidise diesel and kerosene prices.

“The prices are inclusive of Value Added Tax and reflect changes in international petroleum prices as well as applicable taxes and levies,” EPRA said in the statement.