Nationwide Shutdown
A nationwide public transport strike in Kenya began Monday, paralyzing transportation and disrupting daily life due to rising fuel prices. Key roads in Nairobi remained largely empty, and the city center was deserted as private vehicle owners stayed home. Protesters barricaded roads and lit fires. Some schools have asked students to stay home, and the Kenya Association of Private Schools advised members to assess the safety of learners, with most opting for online learning.
Fuel Price Surge
The strike follows authorities raising petroleum prices to record levels, with costs increasing by more than 20%. Diesel prices increased by 23.5% and petrol by 8%. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority raised prices to 242 shillings ($1.8) a litre for diesel and petrol to $1.65. The Transport Sector Alliance urged all vehicle users, including private motorists, public transport buses (locally known as matatus) and truckers, to stay off the roads.
Government Response
Treasury Minister John Mbadi acknowledged the increase in fuel prices was "unfortunate" and hurting the economy. Mbadi called the strike "completely uncalled for" and said the government would only make "informed and not emotional" decisions. The alliance has accused the government of not doing enough to shield Kenyans from the rising fuel prices, amid a broader high cost-of-living crisis. The alliance has called for the reversal of the price increases announced last week, and for fuel prices to be reduced by about 35%.
Root Causes
Kenya relies heavily on fuel imports from the Gulf, a supply route disrupted by the US-Israel conflict with Iran that began on February 28. President William Ruto attributed the price increase to the Iran war in April. Even though a ceasefire has been declared, fuel prices have remained high as the Strait of Hormuz, where a fifth of the world's oil passes through, is still blocked.
Protests and Clashes
Police clashed with protesters in parts of Nairobi, using tear gas to disperse them. There were reports of demonstrators stopping and harassing some motorists. Ahead of the strike, the police assured Kenyans that security measures would be in place and warned against any disruptive conduct.
Economic Impact
The high cost of fuel is being blamed for increases in the price of food and other basic goods and services, with public service vehicles already raising commuter fares. Last month, the government cut VAT on fuel from 16% to 8% until July.
The Transport Sector Alliance said, "This action is not only for transport operators, but for every Kenyan citizen."
