Thousands of Kenyan commuters were stranded and businesses paralyzed Monday as public transport operators launched a nationwide strike, protesting record fuel price hikes.
The protest was triggered by a government-mandated price increase of more than 20%, pushing diesel to 242 shillings ($1.80) per liter. In Nairobi, key roads remained empty, forcing commuters to walk. Police clashed with demonstrators, using tear gas to disperse crowds.
The Transport Sector Alliance called for a complete shutdown, urging all vehicle users to stay off the roads. The group demands a 35% reduction in fuel prices. Treasury Minister John Mbadi called the strike “uncalled for,” blaming global factors for the price surge. Kenya imports most of its fuel from the Gulf, and supply remains disrupted by the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.