Operators of Kenya’s famous matatus announced that the strike would be paused for seven days to allow further discussions with the government over soaring fuel costs that triggered nationwide anger and major transport disruptions.
The demonstrations had paralyzed parts of Nairobi, where protesters blocked roads, burned tires, and forced thousands of commuters to walk long distances to work after public transport services stopped operating.
At least four people were killed during the unrest, while more than 30 others were injured in clashes linked to the protests.
Authorities also confirmed that more than 710 people were arrested during the demonstrations.
The strike erupted days after Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) increased fuel prices, pushing petrol to 214kes equivalent to $1.65, and diesel price to around 242 Kenyan shillings per litre, equivalent to approximately $1.87.
Following Monday’s protests, EPRA announced a reduction of diesel prices by 10 shillings, but matatu operators rejected the adjustment and continued striking into Tuesday before eventually agreeing to temporarily suspend the action.
Kenya’s Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said both sides had agreed to halt the protests for seven days in hopes of reaching a broader agreement.
Transport operators warned, however, that they would resume nationwide protests on Tuesday, May 26, if the government fails to address their demands.
The fuel crisis has intensified economic pressure in Kenya, where rising transport costs have sharply affected food prices, businesses, and household expenses.
Main highways in Nairobi remained unusually empty during the strike, with schools, offices, and businesses reporting major disruptions as workers struggled to travel across the city.
The protests also reflected growing public frustration over the rising cost of living and the broader economic effects of instability in global oil markets linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Human rights groups have meanwhile called on Kenyan authorities to investigate the deaths reported during the demonstrations and urged restraint if protests resume next week.
