Hassan Omar Hits Out at Opposition Defends Fuel Pricing as Global Crisis

The government has stepped up its defense of fuel pricing policies, citing global economic turbulence as the primary driver of rising costs, even as political tensions escalate over the issue.

Speaking during a press briefing on the broader global food and energy crisis,

Hassan Omar Hassan, the Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), backed the government’s position, urging Kenyans to view the situation within a wider international context rather than through a purely domestic political lens.

Omar emphasized that the current economic strain cannot be divorced from global realities, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and instability in key energy-producing regions. According to him, these pressures have significantly impacted fuel prices worldwide, with import-dependent economies like Kenya bearing the brunt.

“The challenges we are facing are not unique to Kenya,” he said. “They are part of a global crisis that requires sober analysis and responsible leadership, not political opportunism.”

His remarks echoed the government’s broader stance that recent fuel price adjustments—including tax revisions—are part of a structured effort to cushion consumers while maintaining economic stability. Officials maintain that reductions in certain levies have already helped ease pressure on households and businesses, even as global oil prices remain volatile.

At the heart of the government’s strategy, Omar noted, is the government-to-government (G2G) fuel import framework introduced in 2023. He defended the arrangement as a critical intervention that has stabilized supply, reduced pressure on foreign exchange reserves, and minimized reliance on the US dollar in fuel transactions.

“This program has ensured predictability in supply and protected the country from speculative pricing in international markets,” Omar stated, adding that dismantling such frameworks without viable alternatives would expose the economy to greater risk.

He also addressed concerns over alleged irregularities in fuel imports, affirming that the government remains committed to enforcing strict regulatory standards. Any violations—including the importation of substandard fuel or unauthorized procurement—would be treated as criminal offenses, he said.

In a pointed critique, Omar accused opposition leaders of exploiting the fuel price debate for political mileage. He dismissed calls for mass protests as reckless, arguing that they fail to acknowledge the complex global dynamics at play.

“Leadership demands solutions, not slogans,” he remarked. “Inciting public unrest without offering credible policy alternatives is both irresponsible and dangerous.”

Beyond immediate interventions, Omar highlighted the need for long-term structural reforms, including investment in local refining capacity and a transition toward renewable energy. He noted that such measures would reduce Kenya’s vulnerability to external shocks and enhance energy security across the region.

Despite growing public discontent, the government remains firm in its approach, projecting confidence that its policies will stabilize the economy over time. Omar reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to working with international partners and domestic stakeholders to navigate the crisis.

As the debate over fuel prices continues to dominate public discourse, the issue has become a defining test of both economic management and political leadership—underscoring the delicate balance between global forces and local realities.