National Assembly Leader of Majority, Kimani Ichung’wah, has commended the advocacy efforts of Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga, who called on Kenyans to engage in carpooling as a means to reduce fuel demand.
He also noted that carpooling could contribute to stabilizing the Kenyan shilling against the dollar, which would benefit the economy. Ichung’wah expressed his support for the conversation initiated by the Azimio regime, emphasizing the positive impact it could have on the economy, rather than undermining the revenue sources of President William Ruto’s administration.
“A stronger shilling is good for the economy. I like this conversation. Clearly, the conversation has changed indeed,” he stated.
Raila Odinga had directed his supporters to boycott taxes as an act of civil disobedience. The former premier has encouraged carpooling to reduce fuel consumption. He urged Kenyans to limit non-essential travel to avoid additional costs, thus denying the government an opportunity to collect taxes.
He further instructed Kenyans to obstruct the paths of President Ruto’s motorcades and those of his government.
“Let us deny motorcades the right of way. They may sound the sirens at their wish but everyone must follow the directive,” Raila stated.
Ichung’wah also acknowledged the significance of the government-to-government oil deal between Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), stating that it played a crucial role in preventing a sharp increase in fuel prices. He speculated that fuel prices would be much higher if the deal had not been secured.
The current prices are Ksh182.04 per liter for super petrol, Ksh167.28 for diesel, and Ksh161.48 for kerosene.
