Kenya Transport strike over fuel hike suspended after four deaths, 700 arrests

A nationwide transport strike in Kenya over rising fuel prices was suspended on Tuesday after causing four deaths, more than 30 injuries, and major economic disruption.

The strike began on Monday after matatu bus operators and other transport groups protested a sharp hike in fuel costs. Kenya raised petrol prices by 20 percent and diesel by nearly 40 percent following supply disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of global oil, has seen reduced traffic since Iran restricted passage.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen announced the suspension, saying the action would pause for one week to allow talks between the government and stakeholders. Matatu Owners Association President Albert Karakacha confirmed the suspension, though some union leaders warned of further protests if negotiations fail.

Cornelius Chepsoi, chairman of the Rig Owners Association, said operators would not accept a minor reduction in diesel prices. He said the government’s offer was too small to ease the burden on transport workers.

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The government reported that over 700 people were arrested during Monday’s protests. Rights groups, including Amnesty International, urged police to exercise restraint after reports of lethal force against demonstrators.

Analysts said the unrest could signal wider instability across Africa if oil prices remain high. Jervin Naidoo, a political analyst, said Kenya’s situation may be an early indicator of similar protests in other countries dependent on Gulf fuel imports. Similar protests over fuel costs recently paralyzed Comoros, where one person died.

The strike shut down much of Nairobi’s central business district. Schools and embassies closed, and trade along Kenya’s main corridor was disrupted as truckers refused to drive over fears of attacks. Economist XN Iraki estimated that one day of shutdown could cost the economy about 50 billion shillings, or $390 million.

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A nurse in Nairobi, who gave only her first name, Faith, said the strike affected patient care after she was stranded at Poplar Hospital for 24 hours. She said she still supported the action because fuel prices were unsustainable.

The government defended its position, with Treasury Minister John Mbadi calling the strike “completely uncalled for” and blaming external factors for the price surge. Critics argue Kenya’s high fuel taxes could be lowered to ease pressure, but the government relies on them to service debt and fund the budget.

The energy regulator said it spent $38.5 million last week to cushion consumers from rising diesel and kerosene costs. Last month, authorities also suspended fuel quality standards to maintain supply amid shortages.

Kenya remains one of East Africa’s fastest-growing economies, but about a third of its 50 million people live in poverty, and unemployment is high.