By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 19 May 2026 - The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has raised concern over widespread violence and alleged human rights violations witnessed during Monday’s nationwide fuel strike, saying at least four people were killed as protests turned chaotic in several parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Monday, the commission said it had received reports of injuries, arrests, looting, arson and destruction of property linked to the Transport Sector Fuel Strike organised by the Transport Sector Alliance.
KNCHR said the demonstrations began peacefully before degenerating into violent confrontations characterised by road barricades, burning tyres and attacks on 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 said.
The rights body also expressed concern over widespread school closures caused by the unrest, saying the disruption had affected learners across the country, especially children from vulnerable communities.
“School closures significantly disrupted the right to education for many learners, particularly children and vulnerable groups,” KNCHR noted.
At the same time, the commission acknowledged efforts by police officers to restore calm but raised alarm over allegations of excessive use of force by security agencies during the protests.
According to KNCHR, several people sustained gunshot injuries while others lost their lives during confrontations with police.
The commission reminded security agencies that the use of force must comply with constitutional principles of legality, necessity, proportionality and accountability.
“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,” KNCHR said.
The commission called for immediate investigations into the violence and prosecution of individuals involved in attacks, looting and destruction of property.
It also urged the National Police Service to exercise maximum restraint and deploy lethal force only as a last resort.
KNCHR conveyed condolences to families who lost loved ones during the unrest and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
The commission reiterated its commitment to protecting human rights and urged all parties to embrace dialogue, peace and respect for the rule of law.
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