Transport Disrupted, Businesses Shut as Fuel Protests Shake Nairobi CBD

Tension gripped Nairobi’s Central Business District on Monday, October 26, as demonstrators took to the streets to protest rising fuel prices and the escalating cost of living, disrupting transport services and forcing several businesses to close as police moved to restore order.

The protesters gathered along major streets, including Moi Avenue and Kimathi Street, carrying placards and chanting slogans demanding cheaper fuel and urgent government intervention. The demonstrations reportedly turned chaotic after some participants clashed with police officers, leading to several arrests. However, the exact number of people detained had not been independently confirmed at the time of publication.

The Coalition of Human Rights Defenders had notified the police of its intention to hold a peaceful march beginning at Kimathi Street and proceeding towards State House. Hundreds of participants were expected to join the demonstration to express their concerns over the rising cost of essential commodities.

The protests followed the latest fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which increased petrol prices in Nairobi to KSh226.96 per litre, diesel to KSh227.76 and kerosene to KSh219.87.

The increases have triggered widespread public concern, with many Kenyans struggling to cope with the growing cost of transportation, food and other household necessities.

The Matatu Owners Association has announced a 10 per cent increase in public transport fares, placing additional pressure on commuters who depend on matatus for their daily journeys. Manufacturers have also warned that higher fuel costs could increase production and distribution expenses, potentially pushing consumer prices even higher.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has defended the pricing system, maintaining that EPRA is legally responsible for determining pump prices. He attributed the latest increases to pressure on global oil markets arising from conflict in the Middle East.

Monday’s protests followed similar demonstrations on October 20, when several people, including Citizen TV journalist Francis Odee, were detained. Odee was later released, while the Independent Policing Oversight Authority opened an investigation into his arrest.

Pressure is now mounting on the government to address citizens’ grievances as concerns over fuel prices and the cost of living continue to grow.

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