Tension rose in Wote on Monday after an office belonging to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) was set on fire during protests linked to the rising cost of fuel.
The incident happened as demonstrations over recent fuel price increases spread across different parts of the country, causing major disruption to transport and business activities.
According to reports, a group of angry protesters moved to the UDA office during the demonstrations.
They reportedly damaged property inside and outside the building before setting part of it on fire. The protests were connected to the ongoing nationwide transport strike, with many Kenyans expressing frustration over the high cost of petrol and diesel.
Videos shared online showed heavy smoke rising from the office building as residents gathered nearby to watch the situation unfold.
Some locals and firefighters were seen trying to control the fire and prevent it from spreading further to nearby structures. The scene attracted a large crowd as people followed the developments from a distance.
Although no injuries were immediately reported, the office suffered visible damage from both the vandalism and the fire. Broken windows, damaged furniture, and burnt sections of the building were among the losses reported after the incident.
The protests come after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority announced new fuel prices that pushed petrol and diesel costs to record highs. The increase has affected many sectors, especially transport, with matatu operators and other public service vehicle owners complaining that operating costs have become too expensive.
In many towns, transport services were slowed down or completely stopped as operators joined the strike or reduced movement. This left many commuters stranded, especially in major towns and busy trading centres where public transport is heavily relied on.
Police officers continued patrolling affected areas in Wote and other towns as authorities monitored the protests. Security teams were deployed to maintain order and prevent further destruction of property.
The situation remains tense as many Kenyans continue to demand action on the rising cost of living, with fuel prices becoming one of the main concerns for households and businesses across the country.
