Violent confrontations erupted in Nyahururu on Monday after protesters took to the streets to demonstrate against rising fuel prices, leading to fierce clashes with police officers and major disruptions to transport services.
The unrest began around midmorning when groups of youths blocked key roads, lit fires and erected barricades across parts of the town.
The demonstrators also threw stones at security officers, prompting police to respond with tear gas in an effort to disperse the crowds.
Witnesses reported hearing gunshots as the standoff between protesters and law enforcement intensified.
The protests brought public transport operations to a near standstill.
Several matatus and buses were forced to suspend services after roads were blocked and operators feared their vehicles could be damaged during the unrest.
Some motorists reportedly faced intimidation, with claims that protesters demanded money before allowing vehicles to pass through certain areas.
Bonfires lit on major streets further heightened tensions, making movement difficult for both residents and transport operators.
While police managed to restore order in some sections of the town, the demonstrations continued to disrupt normal activities for several hours.Despite the chaos, many public transport operators expressed support for concerns over the increasing cost of fuel and the broader economic pressures facing Kenyans.
Residents who spoke during the protests said citizens have a right to demonstrate peacefully but condemned incidents in which vehicles were allegedly attacked and stoned.
The demonstrations come just days after public service vehicle operators suspended plans for a nationwide strike following discussions with President William Ruto at State House in Mombasa.
The strike had initially been halted on May 19 after a two-day industrial action that affected businesses and transport services across the country.
PSV operators had agreed to pause further action for seven days to allow negotiations with the government.
However, Monday’s unrest in Nyahururu highlighted the continued public frustration over rising fuel costs and the economic burden facing many households.