The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) lifted diesel, petrol and kerosene prices on 15 October for a one‑month period, with diesel now retailing at Sh227.76 per litre in Nairobi.

Matatu Owners Association (MOA) president Albert Karakacha said the hike contradicts assurances given by President William Ruto during a May meeting with transport leaders at State House in Mombasa.

Karakacha noted that diesel costs were a central issue in the May talks, where operators left believing the government would shield the sector from sharp fuel price spikes.

The MOA warns that the new diesel price, combined with rising tyre, insurance and maintenance costs, will make it difficult to keep current fares, prompting urgent discussions on fare adjustments.

Operators have not set a uniform fare increase yet, but the association plans an urgent meeting to decide how the added expenses will be reflected in passenger charges.

Higher fares would add to the financial strain on households, especially workers, students and small‑business owners who rely on matatus for daily travel.

The MOA also criticised the slow rollout of promised incentives for electric‑vehicle adoption, leaving operators with limited alternatives to conventional fuel.

Transport leaders have called for longer‑term measures such as reviewing petroleum taxes and creating mechanisms to protect both consumers and operators from sudden energy‑price shocks.