The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Protests broke out in Nyahururu on Monday as angry youths and boda boda riders clashed with police over the sharp rise in fuel prices, bringing transport and business activities to a standstill.
The demonstrations quickly escalated into running battles with police, with protesters blocking major roads using stones, logs, and burning tyres while thick smoke covered parts of the town.
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Anti-riot officers responded by firing tear gas to disperse crowds that had gathered at key junctions, while some protesters retaliated by throwing stones and chanting anti-government slogans over the rising cost of living.
The unrest disrupted daily life, forcing businesses to close and leaving commuters stranded after public transport operators suspended services across the town.
Security was heightened as police patrols moved across Nyahururu to prevent further escalation of the protests.
The demonstrations were triggered by public outrage following a recent fuel price hike announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which saw petrol and diesel prices rise significantly.
The increase sparked anger among motorists, matatu operators, boda boda riders, and transport companies, who warned that higher fuel costs would lead to increased transport fares and further strain the cost of living.
The protests also come shortly after a nationwide transport strike that had earlier paralysed several towns, involving matatus, taxi operators, cargo transporters, and boda boda riders.
Although the strike was later called off after discussions between transport leaders and William Ruto, frustrations over fuel prices continue to grow in many parts of the country.
The government had announced plans to reduce diesel prices in the upcoming pricing cycle and engage financial institutions and insurers to ease pressure on transport operators.
Despite these interventions, public anger remains high as many Kenyans continue to struggle with rising transport costs and the overall increase in the cost of living.
