Rongo MP Proposes Bi-Weekly Fuel Price Reviews During Global Crises

Rongo MP Paul Abuor has proposed amendments to the Petroleum Act, 2019, to allow fuel prices in Kenya to be reviewed every two weeks during periods of global market instability, instead of the current monthly cycle.

Abuor argues that the existing 30-day review system delays relief for consumers when international fuel prices decline. He notes that global disruptions, including geopolitical tensions affecting supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, can cause rapid price fluctuations. While prices may rise quickly, reductions often take weeks to reach Kenyan consumers.

The proposal would allow the Energy Cabinet Secretary, in consultation with the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), to declare an “emergency pricing period” when global instability threatens fuel supply. During such periods, price reviews would occur every 14 days. These adjustments would only be used to reduce or stabilise prices and would not permit increases within the review cycle.

Abuor states that the measure is intended to ensure consumers benefit promptly from falling global prices without facing sudden increases. He emphasises that the amendment does not change the pricing formula itself. Factors such as landed costs, stock levels, and supply chain conditions would continue to determine fuel prices.

The MP has submitted the proposal to the Clerk of the National Assembly and is consulting stakeholders, including the Energy Cabinet Secretary, EPRA, and oil marketers. He referenced EPRA’s review on 14 April and the next scheduled adjustment on 14 May, noting that any price drop within that period would not be reflected until the following cycle under the current system.

The proposal comes amid concern over the effects of global energy market volatility on Kenya’s economy. Abuor maintains that shorter review intervals during crises would help ease pressure on households and businesses and improve the responsiveness of the pricing system.