Eric Omondi insists protest movement will continue until fuel costs reduce
By Paulette Mboga, May 19, 2026Comedian and activist Eric Omondi has insisted that the planned protest movement will continue until fuel prices are reduced in the country.
He said the movement remains firm despite Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announcing the nationwide matatu strike that had paralysed public transport across Kenya for two days being temporarily suspended.
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, he explained that rising fuel costs are affecting all Kenyans across different social classes.
“Mchezo ya taon, but it won’t succeed. We were very clear. TOTAL SHUTDOWN UNTIL FUEL PRICES COME DOWN.” Eric Omondi said.
He stated that Kenya has a large population made up of many groups and individuals. He explained that fuel price increases affect every sector of the economy. He added that transport costs are directly affecting daily life for ordinary citizens across the country.
“This country has a lot of people. A lot of groups, a lot of individuals. It is a country of 56 million people. And when the government raises fuel prices that high, it not only affects the matatu industry. It affects every single person. Kutoka kwa mama mboga mpaka kwa CEO. Some people are driving on these roads, wengine hawatumii matatu..sasa kerosene imeenda juu. So what about your grandmother, that woman in Kibera, ama mwenye ako ushago mwenye anatumia kerosene?” Eric Omondi said.
He further explained that the impact of fuel prices is not limited to transport users alone. He said households in both urban and rural areas are affected by the rising cost of kerosene and basic living expenses. He added that the pressure is being felt across all levels of society without exception.
Protest stance continues nationwide
The comedian maintained that the protest movement remains active despite efforts to calm the situation. He said the shutdown message is still in place and has not changed. He emphasised that the campaign is focused on fairness and accountability in fuel pricing.
He insisted that ordinary citizens continue to feel the pressure of high fuel prices every day. He said the cost of living has continued to rise for families in different parts of the country. He explained that the movement is meant to highlight these struggles.
Murkomen earlier announced a temporary suspension of the nationwide matatu strike. He said the decision followed consultations between the government and transport stakeholders. He added that both parties agreed to engage in structured talks within seven days.