Speaking during the Bahati–Subukia Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative in Nakuru County on May 23, Murkomen argued that the levy remains one of the government's most important sources of funding for road construction and infrastructure development projects across the country.
His remarks come at a time when many Kenyans are questioning the impact of fuel-related taxes on household budgets and business operations.
With pump prices remaining elevated, critics have increasingly called on the government to reduce or abolish certain levies in order to ease financial pressure on consumers.
Murkomen, however, maintained that removing the levy would have serious consequences for ongoing development projects.
Murkomen, however, maintained that removing the levy would have serious consequences for ongoing development projects.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, funds collected through the levy have enabled the government to pay contractors on time, revive stalled road projects, and create employment opportunities for thousands of young people working directly and indirectly in the construction sector.
“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,” Murkomen said during the event.
The CS noted that several infrastructure projects that had previously experienced delays have resumed after consistent financing became available through the levy. He argued that reliable funding is critical for maintaining momentum on national development programmes and ensuring that completed projects deliver economic benefits to local communities.
Murkomen further emphasized that infrastructure development remains a central pillar of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s economic agenda. Improved road networks, he said, facilitate trade, enhance connectivity between rural and urban areas, reduce transport costs, and support long-term economic growth.
At the same time, he acknowledged public concerns regarding fuel prices, which have become a major topic of national debate. The Interior CS attributed part of the current fuel pricing challenge to international factors beyond Kenya’s control, including geopolitical tensions and disruptions affecting global energy markets.
According to Murkomen, ongoing conflicts and instability in parts of the Middle East have contributed to increased costs within global petroleum supply chains, ultimately affecting fuel-importing countries such as Kenya.
“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,” he stated.
The Cabinet Secretary also linked infrastructure spending to broader empowerment efforts targeting young people and women. He said government-funded projects have generated jobs, supported local businesses, and created opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers in construction and related sectors.
His comments are likely to intensify the debate over fuel taxation as Kenya continues to grapple with economic pressures and public concerns over the cost of living. Supporters of the levy argue that sustainable infrastructure investment requires dependable revenue sources, while opponents contend that the tax burden on fuel is contributing to inflation and making life more expensive for ordinary citizens.
Economic analysts note that balancing development financing with affordability remains one of the government’s biggest challenges. While infrastructure projects can stimulate economic activity and create jobs, rising fuel costs often affect transport, food prices, and production expenses across multiple sectors.
As discussions continue, the fuel levy is expected to remain a major political and economic issue, particularly as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election and public scrutiny of government policies intensifies.
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