Deadly Clashes Erupt in Kenya Amid Fuel Price Protests

At least four people have been killed and 30 injured in Kenya during nationwide protests over sharply rising fuel prices. On Monday, at least 348 people were arrested as citizens gathered to support a public transport strike. The government remains cautious, as recent protests have grown increasingly violent despite harsh crackdowns.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the casualties during a televised press conference. Streets in Nairobi were deserted after police used tear gas against protesters who blocked roads with burning tyres. Strikes disrupted major cities, including Nairobi and Mombasa, forcing commuters to walk long distances.

Transport unions demand the government reverse recent fuel price hikes. Kenya raised retail fuel prices by up to 23.5% last week, following a 24.2% increase the previous month. These rises have driven up food and basic goods costs, straining households already struggling economically.

The Ministry of Energy defended the hike, citing global oil market volatility due to the Iran conflict. Kenya, reliant on Gulf fuel imports, has been heavily impacted by Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of global oil shipments pass.

Murkomen claimed most of Kenya remained peaceful but accused “criminal elements” and political actors of hijacking protests. Opposition leader Rigathi Gachagua blamed President William Ruto and associates of exploiting citizens to boost profits.

Kenyan rights group Vocal Africa condemned the lethal force used by police. Protests have grown more violent recently, with last year’s demonstrations against police brutality, corruption, and high taxes resulting in multiple deaths. In June 2024, police killed at least 60 people during tax protests.