18th May, 2026
Statement on Human Rights Concerns During Today’s Fuel Strike
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is deeply concerned by the chaotic scenes witnessed today during the Transport Sector Fuel Strike called by the Transport Sector Alliance. The Commission has received reports of at least four (4) fatalities, multiple injuries, arrests, looting, arson, and destruction of property of unknown value in various parts of the country. There have also been widespread school closures, which have significantly disrupted the right to education for many learners, particularly children and vulnerable groups.
While the fuel strike commenced peacefully in the early morning hours, the situation quickly degenerated when the strike transformed into violent protests marked by road barricades using boulders and bonfires, burning tyres, and attacks by marauding gangs targeting innocent motorists and members of the public. Such acts not only undermine public order but also violate the rights to security, dignity, property, and freedom of movement of other citizens.
The Commission acknowledges the efforts of the police in restoring order in several parts of the country. However, KNCHR is concerned by allegations of excessive use of force, including the use of lethal force, which reportedly resulted in fatalities and gunshot injuries. The use of force by law enforcement officers must at all times comply with the constitutional principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, accountability, and respect for the right to life and human dignity.
As the Commission continues to monitor and document the situation, it reminds all persons in Kenya that the right to strike, protest, and demonstrate is constitutionally protected under Articles 37 and 41 of the Constitution of Kenya and must be exercised peacefully and responsibly. Legitimate industrial action or public demonstrations should not be used as a platform for violence, criminality, looting, or attacks against innocent civilians.
The Commission calls for the immediate investigation, arrest, and prosecution of all individuals responsible for acts of violence, destruction of property, and violations of the rights of others during the protests. At the same time, the National Police Service is urged to exercise maximum restraint and ensure that any use of force is strictly lawful, necessary, and proportionate, with lethal force employed only as a measure of last resort in accordance with national and international human rights standards.
The Commission conveys its sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and wishes all those injured a speedy recovery. KNCHR reiterates its commitment to protecting and promoting human rights and calls upon all stakeholders to uphold peace, dialogue, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
The Commission further calls on anyone with information or any human rights concerns relating to today’s protests to share through Email: haki@knchr.org, SMS: 22359, WhatsApp: 0798849871 and Toll-Free Line: 0800 720 627.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is an Independent National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) established under Article 59 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 and the KNCHR Act, 2011. The Commission’s mandate is the promotion and protection of human rights in Kenya.
Haki Kwa Wote, Kila Wakati!
Claris Ogangah,
Chairperson, Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).