Speaking during an interview from his Karen residence on Sunday night, April 19, 2026, the former Interior Cabinet Secretary sharply criticised the current fuel import system, particularly the government-to-government (G-to-G) arrangement, which he blamed for inefficiencies and lack of transparency.
Plan to overhaul fuel import system
Matiang’i stated that his administration would either review or completely scrap the existing G-to-G fuel import framework. He argued that the current model has created loopholes that allow exploitation and undermine fair pricing.
In its place, he proposed a more transparent and accountable procurement system that prioritises national interest. According to him, fuel importation should be guided by efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and strong regulatory oversight.
He insisted that reforms in the fuel supply chain would be central to stabilising prices and ensuring consistent supply across the country.
Revamping National Oil Corporation
A key pillar of Matiang’i’s strategy is the restructuring of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOC). He argued that the institution has been sidelined over the years and must be restored to play a leading role in the petroleum sector.
His proposal includes strengthening NOC’s capacity to directly import and distribute fuel, improving governance structures, and enhancing accountability within the corporation.
Matiang’i said a revitalised NOC would act as a buffer against market volatility, helping to stabilise supply and protect consumers from sudden price fluctuations.
“If I was president, I would revamp NOC and ensure that it is doing its rightful role in this,” he said.
Crackdown on cartels
The former CS also pledged a tough crackdown on what he described as cartels operating within the fuel marketing sector. He accused some private players of manipulating supply chains and distorting prices for profit.
Matiang’i promised to enforce stricter regulations, eliminate monopolistic practices, and promote fair competition within the industry.
“Private sector companies and cartels in the marketing sector would not be involved in this,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to restoring order in the sector.
Political message ahead of 2027
Beyond policy proposals, Matiang’i used the platform to declare his readiness to lead the country, presenting himself as an alternative to the current administration led by President William Ruto.
“The solution is to replace this administration so we can provide a better government. I believe I am the alternative,” he stated.
His remarks come at a time when political leaders are increasingly outlining their agendas as the race to 2027 begins to take shape.
Government’s response on fuel prices
The issue of fuel pricing has remained a major concern for Kenyans, with fluctuations often linked to global market trends and domestic policy decisions.
President Ruto has previously defended the pricing structure, attributing higher fuel costs in Kenya to the country’s middle-income status and taxation policies.
Speaking during a church service in Nairobi on April 19, 2026, Ruto said comparisons between Kenya and its regional neighbours can be misleading.
“Kenya is a middle-income country. Our neighbours are the least developed countries. There is a big difference,” he explained.
He added that a fair comparison should be made with countries of similar economic standing, noting that fuel prices in middle-income economies are often comparable or even higher.
Taxation and infrastructure factors
Ruto also linked fuel costs to the country’s tax structure and infrastructure demands. According to him, fuel levies play a crucial role in supporting the development and maintenance of Kenya’s road network.
“Our fuel supports transport infrastructure,” he said, noting that Kenya maintains an extensive road system compared to many of its neighbours.
He highlighted that the country currently has over 20,000 kilometres of tarmac roads, with an additional 6,000 kilometres under construction.
The President further credited Parliament for fast-tracking tax reforms aimed at easing the burden on consumers, including reducing Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel from 16 per cent to 8 per cent.
Global pressures on fuel prices
At the same time, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has pointed to global factors as a major driver of fuel price increases.
Speaking in Chuka Igambang’ombe on April 18, 2026, Kindiki linked rising costs to international supply pressures, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
“The war has started pushing petrol up. But you have seen the government has started controlling that situation because we do not want to go back to where we were in 2022,” he said.
A defining campaign issue
As Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, the fuel crisis is emerging as a key campaign issue, with leaders offering competing solutions to address the challenge.
Matiang’i’s proposals highlight a broader debate over the role of government, private sector involvement, and regulatory frameworks in managing the energy sector.
Whether through policy reforms, institutional restructuring, or global market interventions, the question of how to stabilise fuel prices will remain central to the country’s economic and political discourse.