Kenya faces IMF setback over transparency and 'hidden' public debt, petrol prices rise, and Nairobi police reforms announced

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority increased petrol and diesel prices for April-May 2026, adding pressure on households and businesses. President William Ruto is working to ease tensions within the government following claims by Majority Leader Junet Mohamed that state machinery is pressuring ODM lawmakers to defect to UDA. Ruto blamed unnamed forces for fueling divisions and insisted the alliance remains intact, despite deepening mistrust and allegations that UDA is using the partnership to weaken ODM.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati warned of damage to the alliance if "friendly fire" continues. Separately, President Ruto's attempt to secure a new bailout from the International Monetary Fund IMF has encountered a snag. The IMF flagged billions of shillings in potentially hidden public debt, stating that Kenya's KSh 12.8 trillion debt may not fully reflect reality.

The IMF argues that Nairobi's definition of public debt excludes critical obligations such as KSh 684 billion in pending bills, as well as debts tied to state corporations and securitization deals. This lack of transparency, according to an IMF mission led by David Bailey and Naoto Osawa, weakens trust and necessitates more comprehensive public debt statistics. This development comes as rising global tensions push oil prices up, further squeezing Kenya's economy.

In other news, former Rift Valley regional commander Tom Odero has been appointed to l