Nationwide Transport Strike in Kenya Brings Cities to a Standstill as Former CJ David Maraga Calls for Urgent Fuel Relief Measures.

Kenya woke up to a major transport disruption on Monday, May 18, 2026, as drivers, ride-hailing services, school buses, cargo operators, and private motorists joined a nationwide strike protesting skyrocketing fuel prices. The shutdown has left thousands of commuters stranded, disrupted business operations, and forced some schools to suspend classes. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has expressed solidarity with the affected Kenyans and urged Parliament to urgently approve measures to cushion the public from the rising cost of living.

Former CJ Maraga Proposes Immediate Interventions Amid Fuel Crisis.
In a post on X, Maraga highlighted that while the current fuel crisis stems from global tensions, including the ongoing war involving Iran, “every responsible government” must act to protect its citizens from soaring living costs. He proposed three urgent measures to ease the burden:
Exempt all fuel products from VAT to reduce the pump price directly.

Temporarily remove all fuel levies to stabilize fuel costs for consumers.
Redirect resources lost to “budgeted corruption” towards alleviating the energy crisis.
The Transport Sector Alliance announced the strike on Sunday, emphasizing that all subsectors—from passenger and cargo transport to tourism and motorcycle services—would stand together in “one of the largest coordinated industrial actions in Kenya’s history.”

The strike comes as fuel prices continue to climb. According to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), Super Petrol and Diesel prices increased by Sh16.65 and Sh46.29 per litre, respectively, while kerosene prices remained unchanged. Nairobi residents now pay Sh214.25 per litre for Super Petrol, Sh242.92 for Diesel, and Sh152.78 for kerosene. Prices are similarly high in Mombasa and Nakuru, significantly affecting the cost of transport, food, electricity, and other essential commodities.

With commuters forced to trek to work and schools suspending classes, the strike has laid bare the widespread impact of rising fuel costs and renewed calls for government intervention to protect everyday Kenyans.