BREAKING: Motorists and Transport Operators Plan Countrywide Strike After EPRA Fuel Hike

Akoth
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The threat of a nationwide transport shutdown looms over the country after the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) announced plans for a countrywide strike beginning Monday, May 18, 2026, in protest against the latest fuel price increase.

The association, operating under the Transport Alliance alongside several transport and mobility stakeholders, said the industrial action will affect major sectors of the economy, including public transport, freight services, logistics companies, and private motorists.

In a statement shared on social media on Friday, May 15, following a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Nairobi, the group said members unanimously resolved to down their tools over what they described as “unjustified fuel price increases” announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).

According to the alliance, the latest review of fuel prices released on May 14 has further burdened Kenyans already struggling with the high cost of living.

Stakeholders argued that the increase is expected to trigger a fresh rise in transport fares and the cost of essential commodities across the country.

The planned strike is likely to disrupt movement in major towns and along key transport corridors if no agreement is reached before Monday.

Public service vehicle operators, truck drivers, logistics firms, ride-hailing operators, and private motorists are among those expected to participate in the protests.

Transport stakeholders warned that continued increases in fuel prices are making it difficult for operators to sustain their businesses.

They noted that many Kenyans are already spending a significant portion of their income on transport and basic household needs, leaving families under growing financial pressure.

The association also accused authorities of failing to consider the economic realities facing ordinary citizens before implementing the latest price adjustments.

They called on the government and EPRA to urgently review the fuel pricing formula and engage stakeholders in finding long-term solutions to stabilise fuel costs.

Industry players say the rising cost of fuel has had a ripple effect across nearly every sector of the economy, especially agriculture, food distribution, manufacturing, and public transport.

Many operators have already adjusted fares upward in recent months, with consumers bearing the biggest impact.

The looming strike now raises fears of possible shortages and delays in the movement of goods if transport services are paralysed for several days.

Businesses that rely on daily deliveries and supply chains could also face disruptions.

By Friday evening, the government had not issued an official response to the strike notice.

However, pressure is mounting on authorities to intervene and prevent a shutdown that could significantly affect economic activities nationwide.

The planned demonstrations come at a time when many Kenyans are grappling with rising living costs, with fuel prices remaining one of the most sensitive economic issues affecting households and businesses alike.
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