By Andrew Kariuki

National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei has appealed to matatu operators and players in the public transport sector to exercise fairness while adjusting fares following the latest increase in fuel prices.

Speaking amid growing concerns over rising transport costs, Shollei urged operators not to take advantage of commuters already struggling with the high cost of living.

“As fuel prices rise, I appeal to the matatu sector to adjust fares fairly and proportionately without taking advantage of passengers,” Shollei stated.

Her remarks come days after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced new fuel prices that saw Super Petrol and Diesel rise sharply, triggering protests and transport disruptions in several areas.

The Deputy Speaker also warned against opportunistic practices such as artificial fuel shortages, hoarding and unjustified price inflation by businesses seeking to exploit the situation.

According to Shollei, many Kenyan families are already under significant economic pressure due to increasing prices of food, transport and other essential commodities.

She called on both transport operators and fuel dealers to act responsibly and avoid worsening the burden facing ordinary wananchi.

Her statement comes as matatu operators across parts of the country continue raising concerns over the impact of high fuel prices on operational costs, with some already increasing fares on various routes.