Opiyo Wandayi dares Gachagua to face him directly ahead of EPRA fuel price review

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for his comments on fuel prices, asserting that Gachagua lacks the knowledge to discuss petroleum cost management. Wandayi, who accompanied President William Ruto on a visit to West Pokot, stated that fuel prices are independently regulated by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), not by individual government officials.

He dismissed Gachagua's views, telling him, "You know nothing about fuel prices; you were a one-term MP." Wandayi further accused Gachagua of demanding bribes from petroleum companies during his time as Deputy President, a claim that could escalate the political rivalry between the two leaders. Gachagua, representing the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), had predicted a potential price rise of Sh12 per litre for petrol and Sh9 per litre for diesel, claiming President Ruto intended to use the revenue for political mobilization ahead of the 2027 General Election.

He also alleged that Gulf Energy was involved in the plan and that Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi was directed to justify the increases by citing rising global oil prices. The government attributed the price increases to rising international fuel costs due to Middle East conflicts. The upcoming EPRA review will determine if pump prices will increase for the period starting October 15, with current September prices at Sh214.03 per litre for petroleum and Sh217.86 for diesel.