Wambui Faith
The exchange on #JKLive between Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and Molo MP Kimani Kuria was a high-stakes clash over the economy, fuel prices, and the controversial Government-to-Government (G-to-G) oil deal.
Ndindi Nyoro did not mince words, labeling the G-to-G oil arrangement a "scandal," a "kiosk," and a "profiteering machine." His central argument was that the deal has failed to lower pump prices despite a drop in global crude oil prices.
Regional Comparison: Nyoro pointed out that neighboring countries like Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Burundi—none of whom use a G-to-G framework—are enjoying cheaper fuel.
The Global Disconnect: He highlighted a stark contrast: when global oil was $115 per barrel (without G-to-G), petrol cost Ksh 160. Now, with global prices at $98, Kenyans are paying over Ksh 200.
Exchange Rate Woes: He criticized the government for the shilling's depreciation, noting it slid from around 120 during the transition period to highs of 160, before settling around 130.
"The G in Kenya does not represent any government. It is political patronage... a scam for people well positioned in power to fleece Kenyans." — Ndindi Nyoro
The Rebuttal: Allegations of Hypocrisy
Molo MP Kuria Kimani fired back, painting Nyoro as a populist who is now "conveniently" changing his tune. Kuria reminded the audience of Nyoro’s previous support for the very policies he now attacks.
.The Legislative Record: Kuria noted that Nyoro, as Chairman of the Budget Committee, was a vocal supporter of the Finance Bill 2023. He specifically pointed out that Nyoro voted to increase VAT on fuel from 8% to 16% and once praised the G-to-G deal in Parliament.
.Conflict of Interest: In a pointed personal jab, Kuria linked Nyoro’s 26 million shares in Kenya Power (KPLC) to the high energy costs, suggesting Nyoro is a primary beneficiary of the dividends generated by these prices.
Defense and Diversion
The discussion also touched on the technicalities of the oil deal and personal investments.
Technical Defense: Eng. Edward Kinyua clarified that the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) was not involved in the G-to-G trading because its mandate is limited to transportation, not oil marketing.
Investment Transparency: Nyoro defended his NSE portfolio, stating he is a "patriotic Kenyan" who buys shares in his own name rather than using proxies or offshore accounts in Dubai. He noted his KPLC shares were bought at Ksh 1.8 and have since appreciated significantly.
The Bottom Line
The interview exposed a deep rift within the political class regarding the "G-to-G" oil deal. While Nyoro is calling for a return to fuel subsidies and the removal of the 16% VAT, Kuria Kimani maintains that the current crisis is fueled by global tensions (like the Iran conflict) and that the solutions require sobriety rather than "hypocrisy."
For the average Kenyan, the takeaway remains a frustrating reality: while leaders debate statistics and legislative history, the price at the pump remains at a historic high
Ndindi Nyoro did not mince words, labeling the G-to-G oil arrangement a "scandal," a "kiosk," and a "profiteering machine." His central argument was that the deal has failed to lower pump prices despite a drop in global crude oil prices.
Regional Comparison: Nyoro pointed out that neighboring countries like Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Burundi—none of whom use a G-to-G framework—are enjoying cheaper fuel.
The Global Disconnect: He highlighted a stark contrast: when global oil was $115 per barrel (without G-to-G), petrol cost Ksh 160. Now, with global prices at $98, Kenyans are paying over Ksh 200.
Exchange Rate Woes: He criticized the government for the shilling's depreciation, noting it slid from around 120 during the transition period to highs of 160, before settling around 130.
"The G in Kenya does not represent any government. It is political patronage... a scam for people well positioned in power to fleece Kenyans." — Ndindi Nyoro
The Rebuttal: Allegations of Hypocrisy
Molo MP Kuria Kimani fired back, painting Nyoro as a populist who is now "conveniently" changing his tune. Kuria reminded the audience of Nyoro’s previous support for the very policies he now attacks.
.The Legislative Record: Kuria noted that Nyoro, as Chairman of the Budget Committee, was a vocal supporter of the Finance Bill 2023. He specifically pointed out that Nyoro voted to increase VAT on fuel from 8% to 16% and once praised the G-to-G deal in Parliament.
.Conflict of Interest: In a pointed personal jab, Kuria linked Nyoro’s 26 million shares in Kenya Power (KPLC) to the high energy costs, suggesting Nyoro is a primary beneficiary of the dividends generated by these prices.
Defense and Diversion
The discussion also touched on the technicalities of the oil deal and personal investments.
Technical Defense: Eng. Edward Kinyua clarified that the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) was not involved in the G-to-G trading because its mandate is limited to transportation, not oil marketing.
Investment Transparency: Nyoro defended his NSE portfolio, stating he is a "patriotic Kenyan" who buys shares in his own name rather than using proxies or offshore accounts in Dubai. He noted his KPLC shares were bought at Ksh 1.8 and have since appreciated significantly.
The Bottom Line
The interview exposed a deep rift within the political class regarding the "G-to-G" oil deal. While Nyoro is calling for a return to fuel subsidies and the removal of the 16% VAT, Kuria Kimani maintains that the current crisis is fueled by global tensions (like the Iran conflict) and that the solutions require sobriety rather than "hypocrisy."
For the average Kenyan, the takeaway remains a frustrating reality: while leaders debate statistics and legislative history, the price at the pump remains at a historic high
