Four reported killed, 30 injured, in Kenyan fuel price protests

Nationwide protests erupted in Kenya following significant fuel price hikes, resulting in at least four deaths and over 30 injuries. The unrest, which began on Monday, saw public transport strikes disrupt major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. Protesters blocked roads with burning tires and threw stones, prompting police to use tear gas. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen reported 348 arrests and confirmed the fatalities and injuries during a press conference. Transport unions are demanding the government reverse recent fuel price increases, which have risen by up to 23.5 percent, exacerbating the cost of food and other essential goods for many Kenyans.

Protests erupted in Nairobi, Kenya, on Monday due to a nationwide public transport strike against rising fuel prices. Commuters were stranded as public transport operators halted services, and private motorists stayed home. Protesters blocked major roads by burning tires, leading most private schools to switch to online learning after advising members to assess student safety. Kenya's fuel prices reached a record high on Friday, with diesel increasing by 23.5% and petrol by 8%. President William Ruto, currently abroad, has not yet commented on the new prices.

Public transport operators in Kenya have launched a nationwide strike to protest recent fuel price increases, which have risen by over 20% to record levels. The strike, which began on Monday, has paralyzed transport across the country, leaving thousands of commuters stranded and businesses disrupted. Key roads in the capital, Nairobi, are largely empty, with some schools asking students to stay home. Protesters have reportedly barricaded roads and lit fires, leading to clashes with police who used tear gas. The transport operators' association urged all vehicle users to stay off the roads. Kenya's reliance on fuel imports from the Gulf, affected by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, is cited as a reason for the sustained high fuel costs.