Caleb Amisi reads mischief in people who called for fuel hike strike
By Emmanuel Rono, May 19, 2026Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has raised concerns over what he describes as mischief surrounding recent calls linked to the ongoing fuel crisis in the country.
Taking to his X account on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Amisi suggested that some actors may be influencing public agitation over fuel shortages, questioning the motives behind the calls for demonstrations.
“Next time, just like the Finance Bill, demonstrations on issues affecting all Kenyans must be called by Kenyans anonymously,” he stated.
Fuel situation not solved
He further argued that the fuel situation in the country has not yet been resolved, warning that continued instability in the sector is affecting ordinary citizens and the broader economy.
“I read mischief in the people who called for this fuel crisis. Issues of fuel is not yet resolved. Kenya needs a renaissance!” Amisi said.
Current fuel price
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi revealed the proposal on Monday, May 18, 2026, saying the large price difference between diesel and subsidised kerosene had created room for fuel adulteration, where traders mix cheaper kerosene with diesel for profit.
The announcement came as Kenya experienced one of its most disruptive transport shutdowns in recent years, with matatu operators, truck drivers, boda boda riders and other transport stakeholders launching a nationwide strike over record-high fuel prices.
Major roads were blocked, businesses closed, schools suspended learning in some towns, and commuters were stranded for hours as protests spread across the country.
“For prudence purposes and to eliminate the risk of fuel adulteration on account of this huge disparity… we are going to bridge the gap between the prices of diesel and petrol. That would mean, therefore, that the price of kerosene and petrol would have to go higher as that of diesel comes lower,” Wandayi stated.
End of strike
The nationwide matatu strike has since been suspended for one week after the government held talks with public transport sector stakeholders over the rising cost of fuel.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the government said both sides agreed to continue negotiations while transport operators resume services across the country.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government understands the pressure Kenyans are facing due to the increase in global fuel prices linked to the crisis in the Middle East.
“The Government appreciates the challenges faced by Kenyans as a result of the rising global fuel prices occasioned by the Middle East crisis,” the statement read.