President William Ruto recently justified the decision to increase the Road Maintenance Levy from Ksh18 to Ksh25, addressing public opposition to the move. Speaking in Nakuru County, Ruto emphasized that the increase would not impact fuel costs, which are closely tied to the cost of living. He noted that the government had secured sufficient resources through the Fuel Levy to address the needs of both new and stalled road projects, thereby enhancing transportation infrastructure.
Ruto reassured the public that the fuel levy adjustment would not lead to higher fuel prices. He highlighted that fuel prices at the pump had continued to decrease, reflecting the administration’s efforts to manage living costs effectively. The President stressed that increasing the levy was necessary to boost revenue for road maintenance, a crucial aspect of ensuring safe and well-maintained roads across Kenya.
During his address, Ruto outlined the government’s achievements under his leadership, including reductions in maize flour prices. He promised further support for coffee and tea farmers, indicating more positive changes ahead.
The President’s comments followed a decision by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to increase the levy while reducing fuel costs by Ksh1, Ksh1.50, and Ksh1.30 per litre for Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene, respectively. This adjustment brought fuel prices in Nairobi to Ksh188.84 per litre for petrol, Ksh171.6 for diesel, and Ksh161.75 for kerosene.
The Road Maintenance Levy increase had been a contentious part of the now-withdrawn Finance Bill 2024, facing criticism from the public and some leaders who argued it would place additional burdens on citizens. However, former Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured that the ministry, in collaboration with the Kenya Roads Board, would ensure the levy increase would not affect fuel costs.