Moses Kuria Takes Dig At Khalwale In Public Apology

Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria on Wednesday, September 20 took a sly dig at Kakamega Senator, Boni Khalwale while issuing a public apology to Kenyans whom he criticised for complaining about the high cost of fuel in the country.

In a statement, the CS said that the apology was triggered by criticism from the legislator who had asked President William Ruto to fire him over his insensitive remarks.

"Dear Kenyans. On Friday 15th September I made some comments indicating that the price of fuel is likely to go up in the coming months owing to global dynamics," Kuria said in the statement. 

"I have since been advised by people like Dr Boni Khalwale and his master that the statement was incorrect,  insensitive and ARROGANT. I am made to now understand that the price will come down. I apologise profusely since to err is human."

Kuria was on record warning Kenyans that the situation regarding the cost of fuel would get worse before it gets better, saying the prices would go up by Ksh10 every month.

"Global Crude Prices are on an upward trajectory. For planning purposes expect pump prices to go up by Ksh 10 every month till February," he wrote.

The statement drew the wrath of Kenyans which the CS made worse when he dismissed those who complained about high fuel prices following the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA's) move to review pump prices.

The CS followed up his remarks with “I repeat. Petrol will be Ksh 260 by February. And El Nino is coming in three weeks that will last till March. These are the global and climate change driven. Responsible leaders ought to tell the truth to prepare the people. You can throw stones at me all you want.”

David Ndii, the Chairperson of the Council of Economic Advisors, responded to the latest hike by blaming the previous government for wanton borrowing which heavily depleted the country's economy.

He boldly declared, "I don’t believe politicians, and I don’t trust government" while declaring that it was crazy for Kenyans to expect the state of the economy to change in one night.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua then intervened, asking leaders to tone down when addressing Kenyans saying they ought to remember Kenyans are their bosses.

The DP said there is a need for leaders to exercise humility saying it is Kenyans who employed President William Ruto who in turn appointed them into office.

"All of us given the privilege to serve should do so with humility. We should have empathy with the people we are taking care of, respect those under us, and address them with respect and decorum. It costs you nothing," urged the DP on Tuesday after addressing the 36th General Conference of the International Scientific Council of the Trypanosomiasis Research and Control at PrideInn Hotel in Mombasa.