Transport Paralysed, Shops Closed, Tension High as Protests Erupt in Nairobi CBD

Tension in Nairobi CBD as Kenyans Protest Rising Fuel Prices and Cost of Living

Tension has been reported in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) as demonstrators take to the streets to protest rising fuel prices and the growing cost of living, putting renewed pressure on the Kenyan government to address the financial challenges facing ordinary citizens.

On Monday, October 26, 2026, groups of protesters gathered along major streets, including Moi Avenue and Kimathi Street, ahead of a planned demonstration against the latest increase in fuel prices. Police officers were deployed across parts of the city centre to maintain order and manage potential disruptions.

The protests followed the latest fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which set petrol prices in Nairobi at KSh226.96 per litre, diesel at KSh227.76 and kerosene at KSh219.87. The increases have sparked concern among motorists, public transport operators, business owners and households already struggling with rising expenses.

The Coalition of Human Rights Defenders had notified police of plans to organise a peaceful march beginning at Kimathi Street and proceeding towards State House. Organisers expected hundreds of participants to join the demonstration and called for action to ease the financial burden on Kenyans.

The demonstrations have also renewed concerns about the handling of public protests, particularly following reports of arrests during previous rallies. On October 20, several people, including Citizen TV journalist Francis Odee, were arrested during a similar demonstration. Odee was subsequently released, while the Independent Policing Oversight Authority launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest.

As Monday’s protest unfolded, the number of arrests had not been independently confirmed in the available reports.

Rising fuel prices have become a major concern because they can increase transport fares, food prices and business operating costs, placing additional pressure on household budgets.

The latest demonstrations have intensified calls for the government to respond to public concerns. Attention now turns to whether authorities will introduce measures to ease the cost of living as Kenyans continue demanding relief from rising fuel prices.

https://www.facebook.com/share/19YvzrqbJU/

Fireplace feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com