NAIROBI, Kenya, May 18 — The government faced an embarrassing setback Monday night after matatu operators publicly rejected an announcement by Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi suggesting a breakthrough had been reached in talks over rising fuel prices.

📻 Breaking It Down

The dramatic fallout unfolded at Transcom House in Nairobi following hours of negotiations between government officials and transport sector representatives aimed at resolving a nationwide PSV strike triggered by soaring fuel costs.

Addressing the media alongside Transport CS Davis Chirchir and other senior officials, Wandayi expressed confidence that progress had been made, particularly on concerns over the price gap between diesel and kerosene.

“We have come to an understanding that for prudence purposes… we are going to bridge the gap between the prices of diesel and kerosene,” Wandayi said, indicating diesel prices would drop while kerosene prices rise.

📌 What You Need to Know

However, moments after his remarks, matatu sector representatives contradicted him in full view of cameras, insisting no agreement had been reached.

“Yes, I want to say I am sorry. There are things I do not agree here,” one official said. “We did say that we are going to communicate here clear and open that we have not agreed.”

Operators said the government had only предложed a Sh10 reduction in diesel prices, far below their demand of between Sh30 and Sh46 per litre.

“With all due respect… we did not agree on anything,” the official added.

The rejection created awkward scenes as government officials exited while matatu leaders continued addressing the press, effectively taking over the briefing.

Association of Matatu Transport Owners chairperson Kushian Muchiri sought to clarify that discussions had only yielded consensus on curbing fuel adulteration.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya