Bunge la Mwananchi President: Rise in fuel prices may lead to crime wave
The rising fuel prices in the country may lead to serious repercussions, including a high rate of crime. This is according to Bunge la Mwananchi president, Calvince Okoth, who is popularly known as Gaucho.
The controversial political activist has also said high fuel prices are likely to disproportionately affect key players in the transport industry.
“Cases of crime in the country are poised to surge. This is because the youth, particularly boda boda operators, may be compelled to seek alternative means of survival, which could include petty theft,” Gaucho told Nairobi News.
He pointed out that the current increase in fuel prices appears to be at odds with the promises that President William Ruto made to protect the interests of the hustlers.
Gaucho further noted that the soaring fuel prices, which are driving up the cost of living, are also likely to adversely affect marriages and family life.
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“Many young people will shy away from marriage. Currently, even having Sh100 is insufficient to cover breakfast. This means that men may choose to live alone rather than provide for their families,” he said.
He also highlighted the potential for increased drug addiction among youths as they seek ways to escape the harsh realities of life.
Gaucho’s concerns come in the wake of the announcement by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) of new fuel prices, with the price of a litre of Super Petrol jumping by Sh16.96, Diesel by Sh21.32 and Kerosene climbing by Sh33.13.
Epra’s Director General, Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, attributed the sharp increase in fuel prices to the weighted average cost of imported refined petroleum products.
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These adjustments translate to Super Petrol retailing at Sh211.64 per litre in Nairobi, Diesel at Sh200.99, and Kerosene at Sh202.61.
In Mombasa, the rates per litre are Super Petrol (Sh208.58), Diesel (Sh197.93), and Kerosene (Sh199.54), while in Kisumu, they stand at Super Petrol (Sh211.40), Diesel (Sh201.16), and Kerosene (Sh202.77).
At the same time, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has cautioned the public to brace themselves for further increases in fuel prices in the coming months.
He explained that global crude oil prices are on an upward trajectory, and citizens should prepare for an additional Sh10 increase in pump prices every month until February of the next year.
The surging fuel prices, combined with new taxes proposed by the Kenya Kwanza government, have compounded the financial strain on the average Kenyan.
Also read: Tax burden – Why Kenyans are ‘not celebrating’ Ruto’s first year in office