Siaya County Governor James Orengo has criticized the latest fuel prices increase by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), saying the decisions were made in “total darkness.”

In a statement shared on his socials, Governor Orengo demanded that EPRA discloses the full Cost of Service Study and explain how the new fuel costs were arrived at.

“The current economic landscape isn’t just a challenge; it’s a masterclass in gaslighting the Kenyan taxpayer. Yesterday, EPRA didn’t just hike fuel prices they insulted our collective intelligence,” said Orengo.

“EPRA must immediately publish the full Cost of Service Study and explain the rationale behind these phased margin revisions that are being implemented in total darkness,” he added.

Orengo further accused the regulators of presiding over a system that undermines ordinary citizens, arguing that it is structured in a way that rewards a privileged few while disadvantaging the majority. 

He said that the current high prices at the pump are squeezing ordinary motorists and households, warning that the price of basic commodities will automatically rise alongside transport costs.

“Ultimately, we must stop pretending that administrative price setting protects the consumer. These “studies” are often informed by industry players with vested interests, creating a cycle of artificial inflation that stifles efficiency,” he stated.

“We are being asked to fund a system that has completely forgotten the person on the ground, leaving us to wonder how we are supposed to thrive when we are constantly undermined by the very institutions meant to regulate our markets.”

The Siaya Governor suggested that if electricity tariffs require public participation and stakeholder input to implement, then petroleum pricing should also be subjected to the same level of public consultation and transparency.

He also called for the restoration of genuine competition to the petroleum market, reiterating that competitive pricing, is the only way to drive efficiency and protect the public from unjustified cost escalations.

James Orengo’s remarks come after EPRA announced new pump prices for the April to May 2026 cycle.

According to EPRA’s review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices for Super Petrol and Diesel increases by Ksh28.69 per litre and Ksh40.30 per litre respectively.