By Andrew Kariuki

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has criticized the ongoing matatu strike and transport protests across parts of the country, describing the demonstrations as unnecessary and misplaced amid rising global fuel prices.

Speaking amid growing commuter disruptions and protests linked to the latest fuel price hike, Mbadi argued that Kenya should not be blamed for international conflicts affecting global oil markets.

“The matatu strike is completely uncalled for. Why are we trying to solve a global problem using domestic means? We have not caused the US-Iran war,” Mbadi stated.

His remarks come as transport operations in several areas faced disruptions following sharp increases in fuel prices announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).

The latest review saw Super Petrol prices rise significantly while Diesel prices recorded one of the steepest increases in recent months, triggering anger among motorists, matatu operators and commuters already struggling with the high cost of living.

On Friday morning, sections of Kenyatta Road and other routes experienced transport paralysis after protesters blocked roads using burning tyres as the matatu strike intensified.

Matatu operators have argued that the continued rise in fuel prices has made transport operations increasingly unsustainable, with many warning that operational costs are becoming too high to absorb without increasing fares.

Mbadi, however, maintained that the current fuel pricing pressure is largely driven by global geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in international oil markets rather than local government actions alone.

His comments are likely to spark further debate as public frustration continues to rise over fuel prices, taxation and the increasing cost of transport and basic commodities across the country.