Murkomen defends fuel levy, says funds are reviving road projects and creating jobs

‎Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen during the Bahati-Subukia Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative in Nakuru County on May 23, 2026/MINA

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Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the government’s fuel levy, arguing that the controversial charge has enabled stalled road construction projects to resume nationwide and has created employment opportunities for thousands of young people.

‎Murkomen said the government was balancing the need to cushion Kenyans from rising fuel prices with the need to finance critical development programmes.

‎The CS attributed the recent rise in fuel prices partly to instability in the Middle East, saying the government was working to manage the impact without crippling key sectors of the economy.

‎“The challenge of fuel prices has been occasioned by the crisis in the Middle East, but the Government is doing everything possible to address it without undermining development and crucial public services,” Murkomen said.

‎The CS was speaking during the Bahati-Subukia Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative in Nakuru County.

‎He defended the levy against critics calling for its removal, insisting the funds were directly supporting road infrastructure projects and payments to contractors nationwide.

‎“Those opposing the Government want the levy removed so that we are unable to pay contractors, road construction stalls, and our youths lose job opportunities,” he said.

‎Murkomen maintained that infrastructure development remained central to the government’s economic agenda and warned that reducing revenue streams would negatively affect ongoing projects and employment creation.

‎He also used the event to address the growing concern over Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly in Nakuru County, where recent incidents have triggered public outrage.

‎He warned that the government would intensify enforcement measures against perpetrators and directed police officers to take swift legal action in all reported cases.

‎“Gender-Based Violence is a crime like any other. If someone is harming any woman, our police officers must take legal action,” Murkomen said.

‎He further directed all police stations across the country to establish dedicated gender desks to improve handling of GBV-related complaints and ensure victims receive timely support and justice.

‎Murkomen said the government was committed to strengthening protection mechanisms for women and vulnerable groups through closer cooperation between law enforcement agencies, local administrators and communities.

‎The empowerment event brought together political leaders, youth groups and women’s organisations from across the region, with leaders using the platform to promote economic empowerment initiatives and development programmes.

‎Among those present were Susan Kihika, Cecily Mbarire, Bahati MP Irene Njoki, Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, Mathira MP Erick Wamumbi, Gatundu North MP Elijah Kururia, Taita-Taveta Woman Representative Lydia Haika, Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami, Nominated Senator Veronica Maina and EALA MP Falhada Dekow Iman.

‎Also present was Nakuru County Commissioner Dr Loyford Kibaara alongside several Members of County Assembly and local leaders.

‎Murkomen urged residents to continue supporting government development initiatives, saying investments in infrastructure, empowerment programmes and security were essential in driving economic growth and improving livelihoods.