Fuel Price Protests Turn Deadly as Unrest Spreads in Several Towns

Four people have been reported dead and more than 30 others injured following fuel price demonstrations that turned violent in several parts of the country. Authorities have attributed the escalation to the involvement of criminal groups and political actors.

The protests, which were initially sparked by public concern over rising fuel prices and the high cost of living, saw disruptions in several towns as businesses closed and transport services were affected.

Authorities said the demonstrations, which began as peaceful protests against increased fuel costs, later escalated into incidents involving looting, road blockades, and destruction of property. Security agencies were deployed in affected areas to restore order.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen expressed concern over what he described as coordinated attacks targeting public infrastructure, businesses, and individuals perceived to support the government. He alleged that some political actors may have mobilized groups to infiltrate the protests, although investigations are ongoing.

The unrest comes amid growing public concern over the rising cost of transport and essential goods, with many Kenyans expressing frustration over the impact of fuel prices on daily life. In several areas, transport services were disrupted while traders reported losses following incidents of vandalism and looting.

Murkomen said that despite the violence in some regions, other parts of the country remained peaceful during the demonstrations. He added that security agencies were continuing investigations as efforts to stabilize the situation continued.

“It is unfortunate that we lost four Kenyans in today’s violence, which also saw more than 30 people injured,” he said. “It is regrettable that there are individuals who view political opposition through acts that lead to destruction and loss of life.”

He added that “violence, blocking roads, and vandalising public and private property cannot resolve the issue of fuel prices, and only worsen economic conditions for citizens.”

Can Dialogue Ease Fuel Price Pressure?

The Cabinet Secretary said the government is engaging transport stakeholders and relevant agencies in discussions aimed at addressing concerns over rising fuel costs.

He noted that consultations involving the National Treasury, the Ministry of Energy, and the Ministry of Transport are ongoing and are expected to explore possible mitigation measures.

“The government is engaging relevant stakeholders to explore ways of addressing price increases,” he said. “We remain hopeful that ongoing discussions will help identify workable solutions.”

Murkomen also alleged that criminal elements had been mobilized in some areas to target government-linked projects and intimidate supporters of the administration, although these claims remain under investigation.

He cited incidents of property destruction, including attacks on businesses and vehicles in different parts of the country, as part of concerns being examined by security agencies.

“It is a calculated move to spread fear and intimidation,” he said, referring to claims of coordinated attacks.

The Interior Ministry further linked the unrest to rising political tensions and warned against incitement and inflammatory rhetoric. The government confirmed that several suspects had been arrested in connection with the violence, with investigations still ongoing.

“The full force of the law will be applied where necessary,” Murkomen said, noting that arrests had already been made as investigations continue.