Africa-Press. The public transport strike in Kenya, which erupted in protest against rising fuel prices amid the war with Iran, has been canceled after the government reached a temporary agreement with associations representing bus and matatu owners.
The Interior Minister, Kipschumba Murkomen, stated that four people lost their lives and around 30 others were injured on Monday during nationwide protests related to the strike, amid growing public anger over the rising cost of living.
Murkomen explained during a joint press conference with representatives of transport companies that the strike has been suspended for a week to allow for further negotiations between the government and transport companies.
Negotiations held on Monday, the first day of the strike, did not result in an agreement, despite the government’s approval to reduce the price of diesel by about 10 shillings per liter.
Transport operators demanded a larger reduction in the price of diesel, which is the main fuel they use, by 46 shillings per liter. The Energy Minister, Obiu Wandai, told reporters that reducing the price by 10 shillings per liter would cost the government 2.7 billion Kenyan shillings (20.79 million USD) in lost revenue.
Bus and matatu services remain suspended across Kenya, and some schools have closed their doors; however, transport associations urged their members to return to work following the press conference.
Kenya imports nearly all of its fuel products from the Middle East through government agreements with Gulf suppliers. Sharp increases in fuel prices over the past two months have significantly raised transport costs and increased the prices of essential goods, putting additional pressure on families already struggling to cover their expenses.
Nairobi has seen a heavy security presence following a day when protesters blocked roads and clashed with security forces, who used tear gas to disperse them.
