Nationwide Transport Paralysis and Fatalities in Kenya
Four individuals have tragically lost their lives, and at least 30 others sustained injuries, during protests linked to Kenya’s nationwide transport strikes. These demonstrations are a response to recent increases in fuel costs, according to the interior minister.
The strikes have left thousands of commuters stranded, with major roads in the capital, Nairobi, largely deserted. Many businesses remained closed, and schools advised students to stay home due to the disruption.
Protests Escalate, Arrests Made
Protesters have been actively blocking roads and setting up burning barricades. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen reported that 348 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest.
This strike follows days after authorities raised petroleum prices to unprecedented levels, with costs surging by over 20%.
Global Factors and Local Impact on Fuel Prices
Kenya, like many other African nations, heavily relies on fuel imports from the Gulf. Regional geopolitical developments have impacted these supply routes. Despite a declared ceasefire in some areas, fuel prices remain elevated, partly due to ongoing concerns affecting critical shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil passes.
Commuters Face Hardship
Many passengers found themselves stranded at bus stops across the capital in the morning. Those arriving in Nairobi from other regions were unable to enter the city.
Charles, a resident of Kitengela on the outskirts of Nairobi, shared his frustration with Reuters: “There is no matatu anywhere… We used to pay 100 to 150 shillings, right now it’s 300. Life is becoming so unbearable. So please, [President William] Ruto, wherever you are, if you can listen to us Kenyans, please lower those fuel prices.”
A bus conductor transporting passengers from Tanzania told the BBC that roadblocks prevented them from reaching Nairobi, leaving them stranded in Kajiado, approximately 75km (46 miles) from the city. “The bus was full. Many passengers were travelling for work and business. People are now stranded and frustrated because transport has been disrupted,” he stated.
Abdi Suleiman, a motorist operating in Taveta, a south-eastern Kenyan border town, who sources food items from Tanzania, informed the BBC that he was unable to make his usual deliveries due to the strike.
Police Intervene Amid Clashes
In parts of Nairobi and other regions, police deployed tear gas to disperse protesters who had blocked roads with burning tires and barricades. Reports indicated that protesters had been stopping and harassing motorists.
Nairobi police commander Issa Mohamud confirmed that six police officers were injured in the clashes, and five police vehicles along with one civilian vehicle sustained damage.
Prior to the strike, police had assured Kenyans of security measures and warned against disruptive conduct.
Government Condemns Politicization of Protests
Speaking on Monday evening, Interior Minister Murkomen expressed regret that the protests had been “hijacked by political actors for political ends.”
Kenya’s news website, Kenyans, quoted him saying, “Looting businesses and vandalizing public property can in no way bring down oil prices.” He added, “Disrupting transport and destroying livelihoods will only worsen the situation facing Kenyans.” Murkomen also stated that most roads had been cleared.
Transport Alliance Demands Price Reversal
The association representing transport operators had previously called for a coordinated shutdown, urging all vehicle users, including private motorists, public transport buses (known as matatus), and truckers, to stay off the roads. The Transport Sector Alliance (TSA) declared, “This action is not only for transport operators, but for every Kenyan citizen.”
The alliance has accused the government of failing to adequately protect Kenyans from rising fuel prices amidst a broader cost-of-living crisis. They demand a reversal of last week’s price increases and a reduction in fuel prices by approximately 35%.
On Thursday, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) raised prices to a high of 242 shillings ($1.8; £1.4) per litre for diesel and $1.65 for petrol.
Government Acknowledges Economic Pain, Rejects Strike Tactics
Treasury Minister John Mbadi told local NTV on Monday that the fuel price increase was “unfortunate” and acknowledged its negative impact on the economy. However, he deemed the strike “completely uncalled for,” asserting that the government would make “informed and not emotional” decisions. “Why are we trying to solve a global problem using domestic means?” he questioned.
The escalating cost of fuel is being blamed for driving up prices of food and other essential goods and services, with public service vehicles already increasing commuter fares.
Last month, the government reduced VAT on fuel from 16% to 8% until July, but calls for further action persist. Mbadi indicated that the government might consider additional tax relief measures if global prices continue to climb.
With no agreement reached between the government and transport operators, fears remain that the strike could continue.
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