Fuel Price Protests Disrupt Transport in Embu, Chuka, Nyahururu and Thika
Businesses in Embu Town were brought to a standstill after protesters lit bonfires across several streets. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Public transport operations were disrupted on Monday morning in Embu, Chuka, Nyahururu and Thika as demonstrations over rising fuel prices escalated across several towns.
Protesters blocked major roads and lit bonfires on streets, forcing many public service vehicle operators to suspend services amid fears of attacks and destruction of property.
Police officers were deployed to disperse crowds and restore calm in some of the affected areas as tensions continued to build.
Speaking during the unrest, Embu Matatu Owners Association chairman Abraham Gicovi clarified that matatu operators were not involved in organising the demonstrations but had withdrawn vehicles as a precautionary measure.
“We decided to withdraw our vehicles after protesters started lighting fires on the streets. We feared some vehicles could be attacked or burnt,” Gicovi said.
He added that although the transport sector was not behind the protests, operators sympathised with Kenyans over the increasing cost of fuel and the broader economic pressures affecting households and businesses.
Residents who participated in the protests said they supported peaceful demonstrations but condemned incidents in which some motorists were reportedly attacked and vehicles stoned.
The latest protests come just days after public transport operators officially called off a nationwide strike following talks with President William Ruto at State House in Mombasa.
The strike had earlier been suspended on May 19 after a two-day industrial action that disrupted transport and business activities across the country.
Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) chairperson Edwins Mukabanah said operators agreed to end the strike fully after consultations with the government.
“We’re looking up to the President to ensure that he drives the agenda of public transport. We have been promised a lot of things, including electric motor vehicles,” Mukabanah said.
He also welcomed government pledges to review issues affecting insurance and auctioneering in the transport sector, urging Kenyans to remain patient as reforms are implemented.
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