Janet Mbugua has weighed in on the violent fuel protests that rocked parts of the country on Monday, May 18, 2026, calling for accountability, verified information and urgent attention to affected families.
In a statement shared via her Instagram page on Tuesday, May 19, she expressed concern over the loss of life, injuries and mass arrests reported during the demonstrations, which were triggered by anger over rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of living.
“May 18 was not just a protest day,” she said. “During yesterday’s fuel protests, people lost their lives, more than 30 people were injured, and hundreds were arrested. This is why we are outraged.”
The protests, which spilt into several towns and major roads, saw motorists and protesters blocking highways, burning tyres and clashing with police as tension over fuel prices escalated. Commuters were stranded for hours, businesses slowed down, and in some areas, traffic came to a complete standstill as streets turned chaotic and heavily policed.
“Because the cost of living is rising, the cost of speaking out feels like it is rising, and the cost of silence is becoming unbearable,” she added, highlighting what many Kenyans have been saying online and in public forums following the demonstrations.
Authorities and rights groups reported that Monday’s unrest left four people dead, with several injured and hundreds arrested as security officers moved to restore order. While exact figures continued to circulate and vary across reports, the impact was widely felt, with families seeking information about missing relatives and victims.
“This cannot end with grief and headlines,” Mbugua continued. “Share verified information. Check on affected families. Follow up on missing children cases. Report GBV. Demand accountability where you are. Stay safe, everyone 🙏🏾 Sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.”
