Lawmaker ‘KJ’ defends Ruto amid high cost of living
Dagoretti South Member of Parliament John ‘KJ’ Kiarie has joined the chorus of lawmakers defending the government against the high cost of living in the country.
Speaking on September 18, 2023, the youthful lawmaker indicated that the challenges associated with the cost of living were not unique to Kenya.
He further stated that several African countries, including Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania were paying the price for among other factors, climate change, the Covid-19 aftermath, and effects of the war between Russia and Ukraine.
“The issue of the rising cost of living is not limited to Kenya, it extends far beyond our borders. If we look at the United States, we observe a significant increase in food prices. In some areas, there’s even rationing, and recent earthquakes have further compounded their challenges,”He said.
The lawmaker also stated the United States has encountered its share of economic difficulties, with inflation on the rise and disruptions in the food supply chain leading to elevated food prices and shortages in specific regions.
“When we examine the broader perspective, it becomes evident that climate change is wreaking havoc worldwide. Natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes are occurring with greater frequency and intensity. These events have profound economic implications and impact the livelihoods of people not only abroad but also here in Kenya,”
His view comes a day after Trade Cabinet Secretary suggested fuel prices in the country will continue to rise by at least sh10 every month until February 2024.
“Global Crude Prices are on an upward trajectory. For planning purposes expect pump prices to go up by sh10 every month till February,” Kuria posted on his official X account.
If the controversial Kuria’s pronouncement is anything to go by, fuel prices in the country will soon retail for at least sh250 a litre.
In a related development, the spike in fuel prices has led to an increase in the price of several commodities including electricity and matatu fares.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged Kenyans to rally behind the government in its bid to address the economic challenges.
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