Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi Speaking during a boda boda empowerment event held at Nguluni Primary School grounds in Tala, Machakos County on April 15, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has strongly criticised the recent increase in the fuel levy by the government, warning that the move will have far-reaching consequences across all sectors of the economy and disproportionately hurt ordinary Kenyans.
Speaking during a boda boda empowerment event held at Nguluni Primary School grounds in Tala, Machakos County, Mwangangi said the hike in fuel-related charges will ultimately burden citizens already struggling under the weight of multiple taxes.
He singled out boda boda operators as among those most affected, noting that they played a significant role in the election of President William Ruto but now face mounting economic pressure.
“The increase in fuel levy means higher costs across the board. The ordinary mwananchi, especially boda boda riders, will suffer the most,” he said.
Mwangangi urged the government to reconsider the decision, arguing that sufficient public funds exist and that easing the tax burden would help stabilize fuel prices and cushion citizens from further hardship.
“Instead of imposing additional taxes on Kenyans, the government should reduce these levies so that fuel prices can come down and protect our people from unnecessary suffering,” he added.
On youth empowerment, the Deputy Governor lauded the county initiative supporting boda boda operators, describing it as a model worth emulating nationwide. He highlighted the uniqueness of the programme, which not only provides training but also equips beneficiaries with tools and seed capital to start their ventures.
“This is real empowerment—training, equipping, and giving seed capital. It enables our youth to be productive and creative,” he said.
Mwangangi contrasted the initiative with national programmes under the Kenya Kwanza administration, which he claimed rely heavily on loan-based support for youth groups. He argued that such approaches may not deliver sustainable empowerment.
In a sharp political statement, Mwangangi also condemned the rising trend of violence and what he termed as “goonism” in the country’s political space. He warned against the exploitation of young people for disruptive activities, calling for responsible leadership.
“We must stop using our youth to cause chaos. Kenya is becoming a country of goons, and this trend is dangerous to our unity and stability,” he said.
The Deputy Governor further expressed confidence in Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, stating that he envisions a united and peaceful nation under his leadership in the future.
At the same time, Mwangangi issued a cautionary message to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, urging vigilance and accountability in handling security matters, particularly in curbing politically instigated violence.
The remarks come amid growing public debate over rising fuel costs and increasing concerns about political intolerance, with leaders across the country weighing in on the direction of governance and economic policy.
