Nationwide Transport Strike Deepens as Fuel Protests Enter Second Day

Public transport services across several parts of the country remained severely disrupted on Tuesday as the nationwide strike by matatu operators entered its second day, piling pressure on commuters and businesses already struggling with the rising cost of living.

In major towns, including Nairobi, normal operations slowed significantly as many public service vehicles stayed off the roads in protest against increased fuel prices. Thousands of commuters were left stranded, with some forced to walk long distances to their workplaces while others scrambled for limited transport options.

Tension remained high in some regions as groups of protesters gathered along highways and busy roads, demanding immediate intervention from the government over soaring fuel costs.

Demonstrators accused authorities of failing to address the economic burden facing ordinary Kenyans, saying the increased prices of petrol and diesel had pushed transport fares and food costs beyond reach.

In some areas, the demonstrations turned chaotic, with protesters engaging police in confrontations as officers attempted to clear blocked roads.

Videos circulating online showed running battles between anti-riot police and youths, with stones thrown and sections of roads temporarily barricaded to disrupt movement.

Business activities also suffered major setbacks, especially in urban centres where reduced transport movement affected workers, traders, and customers. Several businesses either opened late or remained closed as uncertainty persisted over the ongoing unrest.

The protests intensified amid remarks by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, who recently warned that fuel prices may not reduce anytime soon due to global market pressures linked to tensions in the Middle East.

According to Mbadi, disruptions in global oil supply chains have contributed to increased fuel costs being experienced in many countries, including Kenya.

Transport operators have continued to demand urgent government action, arguing that the rising fuel prices have made operations unsustainable and further worsened the cost-of-living crisis.