Four Killed in Kenya Protests Over Record Fuel Price Rise

Four people were killed and at least 30 injured Monday during nationwide protests in Kenya triggered by a record increase in fuel prices, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said. The demonstrations coincided with a transport strike organized by the Transport Sector Alliance that left thousands of commuters stranded and key roads in Nairobi largely empty.

Protesters blocked roads and set up burning barricades in several towns.

Murkomen told reporters that 348 people were arrested on charges including destruction of property, unlawful assembly, and attacks on police. He said investigations are continuing and those responsible for criminal acts will face court. Nairobi police commander Issa Mohamud reported that six officers were injured and five police vehicles plus one civilian vehicle were damaged during clashes.

Police used tear gas to clear barricades in parts of the capital and other towns.

Murkomen stated that the government respects the right to peaceful assembly but will not tolerate violence or looting. He said most roads had been cleared by Monday evening and warned that the strike would only worsen economic conditions. Treasury Minister John Mbadi told NTV that the price increase was unfortunate and acknowledged its impact on the economy.

He described the strike as uncalled for and said decisions would be based on facts rather than emotion.

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory

Authority raised petrol and diesel prices last week to a record 242 shillings per litre. The Transport Sector Alliance has called for the increases to be reversed and for fuel prices to be cut by about 35 percent. Kenya imports most of its fuel from the Gulf.

, Israel, and Iran that began on 28 February, and the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked despite a declared ceasefire. >"There is no matatu anywhere... We used to pay 100 to 150 shillings, right now it's 300. " — Charles, resident of Kitengela, Reuters >"The government respects the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, but acts of violence, looting and destruction of property will not be tolerated.