Kenya Deputy President Blames Politicians for Fuel Protests, Warns of Worse Price Hikes
NAIROBI— Kenya’s Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has accused opposition leaders of inciting violent protests against rising fuel costs, claiming the demonstrations are being exploited to destabilize the government.
Speaking amid nationwide outrage over soaring pump prices, Kindiki defended the administration’s economic measures, insisting they had prevented even steeper increases. Without government intervention, he warned, fuel prices could have surged to Sh400 per litre—far beyond current rates.
Protests Turn Violent
The backlash over fuel prices has escalated into clashes in several regions, including Kiambu and Nakuru, where two deaths were reported. Protesters have blocked roads, burned tires, and clashed with police, while businesses faced looting and vandalism.
Kindiki condemned the violence, urging calm while vowing a crackdown on instigators. “Security agencies will act firmly against those orchestrating chaos under the guise of protests,” he said.
Government Defends Fuel Stabilization Efforts
The Deputy President acknowledged the economic strain on Kenyans but argued that global oil market pressures left the government with few options. He emphasized that subsidies and tax adjustments had softened the blow, preventing a total price collapse.
Critics, however, accuse the administration of failing to curb inflation, which has pushed basic goods out of reach for many. Opposition leaders have called for mass demonstrations, framing the fuel crisis as a symptom of broader economic mismanagement.
Political Tensions Rise
Kindiki’s remarks signal a hardening government stance against dissent. He accused unnamed politicians of “exploiting public frustration” to sow instability, warning that security forces would not tolerate further unrest.
Analysts suggest the protests reflect deeper discontent over living costs, with fuel prices acting as a flashpoint. Meanwhile, human rights groups have raised concerns over police response tactics, following reports of excessive force.
As tensions simmer, the government faces mounting pressure to address both economic grievances and political fallout—with no easy solutions in sight.
— Reported by Nexio News
