Transport Sector Alliance Announces Nationwide Fuel Strike Over Fuel Prices

A nationwide transport strike will begin at midnight on Monday, May 18, 2026, after transport stakeholders across Kenya announced a joint industrial action over rising fuel prices.

In a statement released on Sunday ,May 17,2026,the Transport Sector Alliance said all vehicles under participating groups will stop operations as pressure mounts on the government to address the increasing cost of fuel and related economic hardships.

The Alliance said the strike has brought together different groups in the transport industry, including passenger transport operators, cargo transporters, ride-hailing drivers, boda boda operators, school buses, tourism transport providers, and private motorists.

According to the statement, the action is expected to become “one of the largest coordinated industrial actions in Kenya’s history.”

“The ordinary mwananchi is the ultimate victim of high fuel prices, paying more for transport, food, electricity, and essential commodities,” the statement said.

The Alliance added that farmers, business owners, workers, and consumers from across the country had already expressed support for the demonstrations.

Fuel Strike: Organisations Supporting the Strike

Among the organisations backing the strike are the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS), Matatu Owners Association, Motorist Association of Kenya (MAK), Truckers Association of Kenya, Digital Taxi Association of Kenya, and the Association of Bus Operators.

Other groups include boda boda associations, driving schools, tourism transport operators, and private motorists.

The Alliance claimed the unity among transport stakeholders gives the strike “99% success.”

Also Read:Ruto Holds Crucial Oil and Gas Meeting After Fuel Price Hike

Key Demands by the Alliance

The transport groups are demanding the immediate reversal of the fuel price increase announced on May 14, 2026.

They also want petrol and diesel prices reduced to about Ksh 152 per litre, with a long-term target of between Ksh 140 and Ksh 150 per litre.

Another major demand is the resignation or dismissal of the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum.

The Alliance also called for accountability over claims of substandard fuel being sold in the country, saying the fuel has damaged vehicle engines.

Calls for Changes in Fuel Regulation

The statement further demanded the disbandment of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and the creation of an independent energy regulation body.

Transport stakeholders also want fuel price reviews to be conducted every three months in the presence of stakeholder representatives.

In addition, the Alliance called for the revival of the Changamwe Oil Refinery to refine Turkana crude oil locally and reduce dependence on imported fuel.

Also Read:Motorists Association Announces Nationwide Transport Strike Starting Monday

Kenyans Asked to Join Demonstrations

The Alliance urged private motorists, farmers, and business owners to join demonstrations in towns, trading centres, and local communities across the country.

“Silence at this moment amounts to acceptance of unaffordable fuel prices, costly food, expensive fares, and a shrinking economy,” the statement said.

The strike organisers insisted the action would remain peaceful and constitutional.

“Enough is enough. Fuel is the lifeblood of the economy. When fuel prices rise beyond reason, the entire nation suffers,” the statement concluded.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates