National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah has staunchly rejected opposition leader Raila Odinga's call for a significant reduction in fuel prices, asserting that fuel costs are subject to market forces rather than government control alone. Ichung'wah challenged Raila's proposal, questioning the basis for the specific figure of a Sh48 or Sh50 decrease.
Raila argues that global fuel prices have decreased, but Ichung'wah countered that fuel prices are influenced by supply and demand dynamics, along with broader economic factors beyond the government's direct control. He accused the opposition of attempting to politicize the issue while acknowledging external forces that impact the country's fuel prices.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority's (EPRA) one-month review as of November 15 indicated stability in the price of super petrol in Nairobi, with diesel and kerosene experiencing a marginal drop. EPRA's Director General, Daniel Kiptoo, emphasized that consumers would not bear the brunt of increased landed costs, as the government opted to stabilize pump prices for the November-December 2023 pricing cycle.
In addition to addressing the fuel price debate, Ichung'wah revealed that the National Assembly would discuss the National Dialogue Committee report after the Christmas recess. He expressed the MPs' commitment to ensuring the enactment of the Ward Development Fund, either through legislation or constitutional measures, to empower local development planning.
Despite opposition criticism, Ichung'wah praised President Ruto's economic efforts, asserting that the nation's economy, despite initial challenges, is on an upward trajectory. He urged Kenyans to disregard opposition critiques, emphasizing that the government's strategies to reduce the cost of living are yielding positive results.
The standoff between the government and the opposition over fuel prices highlights the complexities of managing economic issues influenced by global market forces. The discussion within the National Assembly regarding the National Dialogue Committee report signals a renewed focus on key legislative matters that could shape the country's future. As the nation navigates these economic and political challenges, the decisions made in Parliament will play a crucial role in determining the trajectory of Kenya's development and governance.
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