Kenya Suspends Nationwide Transport Strike After Deadly Protests and Talks with Government

Public transport operators in Kenya have suspended their nationwide strike for one week after talks with the government, easing a disruption that left commuters stranded and triggered violent protests in which at least four people were killed and more than 30 injured. The strike had paralysed transport across the country as unions demanded lower fuel prices amid rising costs, while authorities linked price increases to global energy disruptions. Discussions between both sides are expected to continue during the suspension period.

Public transport operators in Kenya have suspended their nationwide strike for one week following talks with the government, temporarily easing tensions after two days of violent protests that left at least four people dead and more than 30 others injured.
The strike had brought transport services across the country to a standstill, leaving thousands of commuters stranded for a second straight day. In Nairobi, the capital, major roads and highways were blocked as protesters clashed with police, while burning tyres were used to barricade key routes, making movement in and out of the city’s central areas difficult.
Residents described severe disruption to daily life and economic activity. One Nairobi resident, Benard Onyango, said there was little or no normal business activity in the central district and called for government action to reduce fuel prices, which he said were putting heavy pressure on households. A transport worker, Emily Otuoma, said the strike had affected her income and also disrupted children’s ability to attend school due to lack of available transport. Another resident, Julian Achola, said his family was significantly affected by blocked roads and restricted movement, describing the situation as chaotic.
The strike had been triggered after talks between transport operators and the government broke down. Transport unions had demanded a reduction in fuel prices to help offset rising operational costs, while government officials attributed the increase to global energy disruptions linked to the ongoing Iran conflict. Opposition figures, however, blamed local corruption and profiteering for worsening fuel prices.
Following renewed negotiations, authorities and transport operators agreed to suspend the strike for one week to allow further consultations. Officials say discussions will continue during this period in an effort to prevent another shutdown and address the underlying grievances of transport workers.