Four people have died and 30 more are injured in Kenya. Protests erupted during nationwide transport strikes. These strikes target recent sharp increases in fuel costs. The situation left thousands of commuters stranded.
Businesses in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, faced disruptions. Some remained shut as schools asked students to stay home. Protesters blocked roads. They also erected burning barricades. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen reported 348 arrests.
The strike follows significant fuel price hikes. Prices increased by more than 20%. Kenya depends heavily on imported fuel. Global disruptions, like those affecting the Strait of Hormuz, impact prices. The conflict between the US and Iran has disrupted fuel routes. Even with a ceasefire, prices remain high.
Commuters in Nairobi struggled to find transport. Bus stops were packed. Prices for matatus, local minibuses, more than doubled. One resident called life "unbearable." He pleaded for lower fuel prices from President William Ruto.
Transport operators urged everyone to stay off the roads. This included private motorists and truckers. The Transport Sector Alliance (TSA) issued a statement. They represent many transport operators nationwide. The TSA accuses the government of not doing enough. They want fuel prices reduced by about 35%.
Last week, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) raised prices. Petrol prices reached 242 shillings per litre. This translates to about $1.80. The government had previously cut VAT on fuel. This reduction was from 16% to 8%. It was intended to last until July.
However, many feel these measures are insufficient. The high cost of fuel affects food and other essential goods. Treasury Minister John Mbadi acknowledged the price increase hurts the economy. He called the strike "uncalled for." He stated decisions must be informed, not emotional. He questioned solving a global issue with domestic solutions.
Police used tear gas to disperse some protesters. Clashes injured six police officers. Five police vehicles and one civilian car were damaged. Police assured security would be in place. They warned against disruptive conduct before the strike.
Minister Murkomen criticized the protests. He stated they were hijacked by political actors. He argued that looting and vandalism do not lower oil prices. Disrupting transport and livelihoods worsen the situation, he added. Most roads have since been cleared, according to Murkomen.
No agreement has been reached between the government and transport operators. Fears remain that the strike could continue. This ongoing situation poses significant economic risks. It impacts daily life for many Kenyans.