Stabex Chairman Jackson Chebet sues Rigathi Gachagua for defamation over fuel saga claims

Ekuru Aukot calls for nationwide protests over rising fuel prices on April 21

Third Way Alliance party leader Ekuru Aukot has voiced his support for a nationwide protest against increasing fuel prices, urging Kenyans to participate on Tuesday, April 21. Aukot's call comes amid growing public frustration following recent fuel price adjustments by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority EPRA. He used his X account on April 17 to rally Kenyans, linking their struggles with the high cost of living to soaring fuel prices. Aukot shared posters circulating online that advocate for protests under slogans like "Total Shutdown" and "Fixing the Nation," with hashtags such as #RejectFuelPrices. He sarcastically suggested that if Kenyans cannot afford fuel, they should be prepared to "consume" teargas during the demonstrations. This declaration follows an ultimatum issued by the United Opposition to President William Ruto, demanding action on the fuel situation. The opposition, in a statement read by Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, called for the cancellation of the government-to-government G-to-G fuel import framework, removal of Value Added Tax VAT on fuel, suspension of the road maintenance levy, and a halt to other statutory deductions like the affordable housing levy and increased National Social Security Fund NSSF contributions. They argue these measures have worsened the cost-of-living crisis and also demanded accountability and prosecution of officials involved in a fuel scandal.