Kenya recently grappled with a severe fuel crisis, triggering widespread transport chaos and significantly escalating the cost of living across the nation. In response to the growing public outcry, President William Ruto convened high-level talks with transport stakeholders at State House, Mombasa, culminating in an address to the nation on May 22, 2026.

However, President Ruto’s highly anticipated address was met with profound disappointment and uproar from struggling Kenyans. Many had hoped for immediate relief through a significant reduction in pump prices, but the President opted to leave current fuel costs untouched. This decision further plunged families, traders, and transport operators into economic despair, leading to accusations that Kenyans were left to fend for themselves amidst alleged outright lies by line Cabinet Secretaries, dramatic arrests of top energy officials without charges, and 'cosmetic meetings' that yielded no tangible solutions. Furthermore, reports surfaced of bribery claims, betrayal, and greed marring the high-level talks, with a broader plot allegedly hatched to exclude certain officials of matatu associations from the meeting with the President.

Adding to the political discourse, opposition leaders swiftly criticized President Ruto’s refusal to lower Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel, arguing it was a crucial measure to cushion citizens from the exorbitant cost of living.

Amidst the controversy, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki addressed claims of his absence during the fuel crisis and subsequent matatu strike. Speaking in Kapyego, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kindiki dismissed such reports as uninformed and untruthful, asserting that the impasse was resolved through a comprehensive 'whole-of-government approach' and that he was centrally involved in finding a lasting solution, as directed by President Ruto.

The Deputy President clarified his role, stating he chaired a prior meeting with several Cabinet Secretaries—including Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, Roads and Transport CS Davies Chirchir, and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi—before they proceeded to meet with transport sector stakeholders. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen corroborated Kindiki's account, commending his results-oriented work style and respect for the President, while local leaders in Elgeyo-Marakwet County also voiced their support, dismissing what they termed 'idle talk' and acknowledging the Deputy President's contributions to national development.