Speaking on Wednesday as pressure mounts over rising pump prices, Cherargei alleged that Nyoro played a role in earlier tax decisions on petroleum products while serving in a key parliamentary budget position.
He claimed the MP is now publicly opposing policies he previously supported, especially the increase in VAT on fuel, which he says has contributed to the current cost burden on Kenyans.
“Nimeona wenzangu ambao walikuwa chairman 2023/2024… hao ndio walipush VAT on petroleum products kutoka 8% hadi 16%,” Cherargei said, questioning Nyoro’s current push for tax reductions.
He argued that Nyoro lacks consistency in his position, adding that attempts to push Parliament into a special sitting to review fuel prices are politically driven and procedurally unrealistic.
According to the Senator, such decisions can only be initiated through parliamentary leadership structures, not individual MPs acting alone.
Cherargei further defended Parliament’s constitutional authority in taxation, stating that only the legislature has the power to impose or adjust taxes in the country.
“Articles 209 and 210 say taxation is a mandate of Parliament,” he noted.
At the same time, he backed calls for reduced fuel taxes, proposing that VAT on petroleum products be lowered from 8 per cent to zero in response to global economic pressures.
He also suggested reducing the Road Maintenance Levy to ease fuel costs, though he maintained that the levy remains critical for funding road construction and repairs nationwide.
Beyond taxation, Cherargei urged transport operators to reduce fares if fuel prices fall and called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, including a possible revival of the Michuki Rules to restore discipline in the transport sector.
His remarks come after Nyoro intensified calls for Parliament to be recalled from recess to deliberate urgent fuel tax amendments aimed at easing the rising cost of living for Kenyans.