Kenya Protests Over Fuel Hikes Leave 4 Dead, 30 Wounded

At least four people have been killed and more than 30 others injured during nationwide protests over rising fuel prices in Kenya, authorities said.

The demonstrations, which disrupted transportation and business activities in several cities, were linked to a nationwide public transport strike triggered by recent increases in fuel costs.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said at least 348 people were arrested during the unrest on Monday.

Police fired tear gas at protesters in parts of the capital, Nairobi, after demonstrators blocked major roads with burning tyres and hurled stones at security personnel.

The protests also spread to other major cities, including Mombasa, causing severe disruption to public transportation and forcing many commuters to walk long distances to work and school.

Transport unions have demanded that the government reverse recent fuel price hikes, which saw retail fuel costs increase by more than 23 percent last week following another sharp rise the previous month.

The Kenyan government defended the increase, blaming instability in global oil markets and disruptions linked to tensions involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz shipping route.

Opposition politician Rigathi Gachagua accused President William Ruto and his allies of exploiting the situation for financial gain, claims the government has rejected.

Human rights groups also criticised the use of force against protesters, with activists condemning the deaths recorded during the demonstrations.

Kenya has witnessed repeated waves of anti-government protests in recent years over economic hardship, corruption allegations and rising living costs.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share