'Remove taxes on fuel': Nairobi's anger over pump prices spills onto the streets
Almost 227 shillings for a litre of petrol, kerosene nearly 30 shillings dearer: the new prices hit Kenyan households hard. On Monday protesters took to the streets of central Nairobi, and police broke up the demonstrations.
What happened
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has raised prices again for October and November. In Nairobi a litre of petrol now costs 226.96 shillings, up 12.93; diesel 227.76 shillings; kerosene 219.87 shillings, a jump of 28.49. The regulator cites high world prices and the Middle East conflict, saying import costs in September were the highest since the crisis began.
A coalition of human rights defenders had notified police of a peaceful march from Kimathi Street to State House, expecting 500 to 900 people. On Monday clashes broke out on Moi Avenue and Kimathi Street; police dispersed the crowd and arrested several people. Some shops closed.
There had already been protests on 20 October, Mashujaa Day; the arrest of a television journalist is being investigated by the police oversight authority.
The mood on the ground
Placards demanded that taxes on fuel be removed, accompanied by anti-government chants. According to The Kenya Times, tension in the city centre persisted for much of the day.
The frustration goes beyond the protesters. Motorists, ride-hailing drivers and transport operators complain that prices are eating into earnings and household budgets. A commuters' association gave EPRA two weeks to reverse the increase or face court action.
Not everyone is turning to the streets: the Matatu Owners Association, which went on a nationwide strike in May after a price shock, ruled out a strike this time. The minibuses keep running, and passengers are likely to bear the extra cost.
Voices from the media
Sources
This article was rewritten from local-language sources. Every statement about the mood is based on the linked reports.