Moses Kuria apologises over remarks on cost of fuel

By Peter Ochieng

Cabinet Secretary (CS) for trade and industrialisation Moses Kuria has seemingly 'eaten humble pie,' and decided to apologise to Kenyans over his remarks on the cost of fuel.

Last week, the vocal CS told Kenyans to brace for more tougher times, since the cost of fuel was expected to rise by Sh10 per litre every month, until February, 2024.

In what seemed to be a statement laced with arrogance, the former Gatundu South Member of Parliament (MP) then said Kenyans online complaining about the cost of fuel can drill their own oil.

However, the former lawmaker has decided to apologise, albeit sarcastically.

"Dear Kenyans. On Friday 15th September I made some comments indicating that the price of fuel is likely to go up in the coming months owing to global dynamics," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"I have since been advised by people like Dr Boni Khalwale and his master that the statement was incorrect, insensitive and arrogant. I am made to now understand that the price will come down. I apologise profusely since to err is human."

By 'Khalwale and his master,' the CS reffered to Kakamega Senator Bonny Khalwale and possibly, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Khalwale called for the sacking of Kuria, while Gachagua called him out for being arrogant and insensitive.

Some Kenyans online who responded to his apology wanted to know whom he meant by 'Khalwale's master.'

"Who is Bonny Khalwale's master?" paused The Only Joe.

Moses Kuria's statements on the cost of fuel attracted a lot of uproar, with lawyer Joshua Miguna Miguna telling him that he is not even fit to hold the position of a clerk in any public office.

"The fuel prices in Kenya are too high…higher than in North America where citizens’ wages are much higher and there are social cushions provided by the State! You are a CS for Trade: stop repeating these nonsensical excuses for the government’s failure to address the vagaries of institutional corruption and mismanagement!" Miguna wrote.

"You actually believe that your primary responsibility is to serve private enterprises and not Kenyans who elected President @WilliamsRuto and the Kenya Kwanza administration? Then you are not fit to serve as a clerk in any public office because you don’t understand your role; nor do you respect Kenyans who pay your huge salary!"