Clashes broke out between protesters and security forces in Nairobi on Monday after transport workers launched a strike over rising fuel prices, bringing movement across parts of the Kenyan capital to a standstill.
The strike, dubbed #RejectFuelPrices, began at midnight on May 18 after 'matatu' (minibus) operators and other transport groups suspended services following a call by the Transport Sector Alliance.
Footage shows protesters setting fires in the streets, throwing stones and erecting barricades, while security forces moved to disperse crowds. One protester is seen receiving treatment after being wounded in the arm.
“We are tired of Ruto’s government. How come fuel is cheaper in Tanzania and Uganda? Are we children of a lesser God?” said protester Alex Nzuke.
“We are saying Ruto One Term, Ruto One Term, then the police are using live bullets on us,” he added.
Demonstrators also questioned President William Ruto’s economic agenda amid the rising cost of living.
“When Ruto was seeking power, he used to criticise the former president, saying over-taxation was making fuel costs go up. But today, with him in power, the cost has almost doubled,” said Vincent Rotich, another protester. “He promised to uplift the common citizens, however it is the opposite.”
“When Ruto became president, he had sold the bottom-up philosophy. It seems he meant prices will go up,” said protester Samuel. “Fuel prices are up, flour prices are up. I want to ask him, does over-taxation solve anything?”
It comes after Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raised fuel prices to record levels, with diesel prices increasing by 23.5% and petrol by 8%. Petrol in Nairobi now costs 214.25 Kenyan shillings ($1.66) per litre, while diesel has risen to 242.92 Kenyan shillings ($1.88) per litre.
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