NAIVASHA, Kenya — MP Jayne Kihara has urged residents of Naivasha to avoid destroying businesses and private property during ongoing anti-fuel price protests, warning that violence and vandalism risk worsening the economic hardship already facing Kenyans.
In a public statement issued on Tuesday, the legislator acknowledged growing public anger over the rising cost of living but appealed for restraint as demonstrations continue across the country following sharp increases in fuel prices announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
“My Naivasha people, even as we express our displeasure on how the government is governing us, let us do so with respect to our property,” Kihara said.
“We’re agitated by how the government has mismanaged the economy, and it can only be fair if we protect our already existing businesses.”
Her remarks came amid heightened tensions in several towns following nationwide protests and transport disruptions linked to soaring fuel costs. Demonstrations in parts of Nairobi, Naivasha, and other urban centres turned violent, with reports of deaths, injuries, torched vehicles, and destruction of businesses.
The lawmaker said the government must recognise the depth of frustration among ordinary citizens and engage the public with empathy and respect.
“The government of the day must also be alive to the fact that they are dealing with a very desperate and angry society. Let those in charge of the executive address Kenyans with respect and empathy,” she stated.
Kihara also expressed sympathy for families affected by the unrest and traders whose businesses suffered losses during the demonstrations.
“I send my sincere condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the anti-fuel hike protests and equally sympathise with businessmen and women who have been left counting losses,” she added.
The protests were triggered by a steep rise in fuel prices announced on May 14, with Super Petrol increasing by Sh16.65 per litre and Diesel rising by Sh46.29 per litre.
The increases sparked outrage among motorists, transport operators, and manufacturers, who warned that the higher costs would further raise transport fares, food prices, and production expenses.
Naivasha was among the towns affected by unrest, with several incidents of property destruction reported. Chesumei MP Paul Biego earlier disclosed that his truck, valued at more than Sh20 million, was torched in Naivasha after delivering maize flour from Eldoret.
The protests also disrupted transport networks countrywide after matatu operators staged a strike over fuel costs, leaving thousands of commuters stranded.
Government officials have since opened negotiations with transport sector stakeholders, leading to a temporary one-week suspension of the strike to allow further consultations.
Political leaders across the divide have continued piling pressure on President William Ruto’s administration to review fuel taxes and introduce measures to cushion Kenyans from the rising cost of living.
