Kiambu Woman Representative Ann Wamuratha has called for stability, dismissing planned protests over the rising cost of living and urging Kenyans to avoid actions that could further damage the economy.

Speaking in a presser on Monday, April 20, 2026, Wamuratha noted that discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Energy to explore ways to bring down fuel prices.

She attributed the current high costs partly to international conflicts, expressing hope that as these situations stabilise and supply ships arrive, fuel prices will decrease.

“Zile mambo ambayo inajadiliana na Ministry ya Energy kuangalia na kuangalia pale ambapo hiyo bei ya mafuta inaweza kwenda chini. Ukweli ya kwamba pia kule kulikuwa na vita hiyo vita tunaomba Mungu itatulia na ikitulia hizo meli zikiweza kufika bei ya mafuta itashuka,” Wamuratha stated.

No to demos

The representative further criticised the opposition leaders calling for maandamano, questioning the logic of shutting down the country. She argued that such demonstrations often lead to the destruction of property and personal reputations rather than providing solutions.

“Kwa hivyo wewe ambao unasema watu watoke waende maandamano; hiyo siku watakula kwako, hiyo siku unataka kuambia kazi ifungwe watakula wapi? Kwa nini tunataka kuongezea shida juu ya shida ingine? Tuombee hii nchi. Tuombee hii nchi ya Kenya,” Wamuratha said.

Ruto explaining fuel prices

President William Ruto has explained why fuel prices in Kenya often remain higher than in neighbouring countries, pointing to the country’s middle-income status and tax structure.

Speaking during a Sunday service at Karen Africa Gospel Church on April 19, 2026, Ruto said comparisons between Kenya and its neighbours are often misleading.

“I know many people in Kenya keep asking, you know, why it is that sometimes prices of fuel are different in Kenya from our neighbours? Sometimes maybe it’s good to let them know, because people need to know,” he said.

He said the first reason is Kenya’s economic classification.

“Kenya is a middle-income country. Our neighbours are least developed countries. There is a big difference.”

“If you want to compare Kenya fairly with others, compare Kenya with other middle-income countries. That is how you will get the figures right. Middle-income countries like Kenya may have higher prices than Kenya or the same,” he said

Opposition leaders on maandamano

The remarks come amid public concern over fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which saw super petrol and diesel rise significantly in Nairobi. The changes triggered public debate on fuel policy, taxation and cost of living.

Political reactions followed, including statements from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and opposition leaders calling for a special parliamentary sitting to review fuel procurement arrangements. They also raised concerns about government energy policies and related levies.