Fuel consumers in Kenya have been lamenting the high cost of the product following an announcement by the regulator. 

The fuel price increased overnight to about 212 shillings ($1.40; £1.20) per litre, especially in the country’s capital Nairobi. 

The product’s prices are now different – rising by about nine per cent to 20 per cent. 

The price rise came after wide protests in recent months against the high living costs and the government’s economic policies.

David Ndii, chief economic adviser to President William Ruto, had described the rise in the price as “painful and it may not work”, noting that he was not going to sell false hope to Kenyans.

Mr Ndii’s comment on fuel prices has become a trending topic on social media. 

“Mr Ndii has told us the bitter truth that we are repugnant fools and stupid morons for having believed that people who used a wheelbarrow as a party symbol had any idea of fixing the country. It is our fault for believing them,” a Kenyan said on X.

“On average, fuel stations in Kenya have fuel stock of about 15,000 litres give or take. How the new prices were effected on the old stock a little after midnight shows you how this country is controlled by crooks!” another Kenyan identified as @Gemguru_ wrote on X.

Also, @Wonderke_21 wrote, “The soaring cost of living in Kenya has become a serious concern for many, and the recent fuel price adjustments by EPRA have further exacerbated the situation.”

Mr Ruto removed fuel subsidy when he came into office in September 2022.