Kenya: Ruto Denies Forcing Transport Leaders to Call Off Strike, Defends Fuel Subsidy Strategy

Nairobi — President William Ruto has denied claims that his administration pressured transport sector leaders into calling off their strike, insisting the decision was reached voluntarily after discussions on the country's fuel situation.

Speaking during the National Prayer Breakfast Thursday, Ruto said he held a nearly three-hour meeting with transport sector representatives in Mombasa, where government officials explained the realities of fuel pricing, subsidies, and lessons from past fuel crises.

"When we finished, they told me, 'Mr President, we are going to call off the strike.' I did not tell them to call off the strike," Ruto said.