Protests erupt in Kenya over fuel price hike, paralyzing transport

Protests erupted across parts of Kenya on Monday as demonstrators blocked roads and disrupted public transport following a fresh rise in fuel prices blamed on global supply pressures linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

The unrest followed a call by the Transport Sector Alliance for vehicles affiliated with its member associations to cease operating from midnight in protest against the latest increase. Police warned they would act against disruptions.

Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority last week raised retail fuel prices by as much as 23.5%, after a 24.2% increase the previous month, citing higher global oil prices and supply constraints.

Commuters in Nairobi were left stranded as transport operators abandoned routes and protesters barricaded major roads into the capital with burning tires and debris, triggering severe traffic jams.

Police fired tear gas in some areas to disperse protesters and clear blocked roads.

"We are asking the government to sort out fuel prices. It is already hard for us to repay our car loans," Richard Ndoko, chairperson of the Ngong Road Online Drivers told CGTN. 

"I used to spend at least Ksh 2,000 (approximately $15.43) a day on fuel, but now I spend around Ksh 3,500 (approximately $27). That leaves us with almost nothing at the end of the day," he said.

CGTN's Wilkister Nyabwa reported that drivers planned to continue protesting until the government addresses their concerns. 

(With input from wires)