Protesters burn MP’s Ksh20 million commercial trailer

Paul Biego Polo, the Member of Parliament for Chesumei, has expressed anguish after one of his commercial trucks was allegedly torched during protests linked to rising fuel prices in Naivasha.

The legislator shared his frustration online after the vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz Actros 3340, was destroyed during demonstrations that erupted amid the ongoing transport sector unrest.

Truck Destroyed After Delivery

According to the MP, the truck had just completed transporting maize flour from Eldoret to Kanini Haraka Wholesalers in Naivasha before it was attacked.

The vehicle, which Biego said was worth more than KSh 20 million, was reportedly set ablaze by a mob during the chaos.

In an emotional statement posted on social media, the MP described the destruction as devastating, saying years of hard work had been wiped out within minutes.

“Imagine the sheer heartbreak of watching years of your life’s work vanish in a single moment of lawlessness. Because of the lawlessness during today’s uncalled-for maandamano, my truck worth over KSh 20 million — an Actros 3340 — was completely destroyed in Naivasha,” he wrote.

Claims of Targeted Attacks

Biego further alleged that the truck was deliberately targeted after protesters identified it as originating from the North Rift region.

According to him, there appeared to be a coordinated effort to single out vehicles associated with the area during the unrest.

“What’s more heartbreaking and deeply unsettling is that there seems to be a coordinated active targeting and monitoring of vehicles and trucks from North Rift in this ongoing violence,” he claimed.

Years of Sacrifice Lost

The MP described the truck as more than just a business asset, saying it represented years of sacrifice, sleepless nights, and determination.

He lamented that the destruction had not only caused financial losses but also affected livelihoods tied to the vehicle.

“In a single flash of senseless violence, livelihoods have been shattered, families have been left vulnerable, and the dreams and sweat of so many people have been reduced to nothing but smoke and ashes,” he added.

Fuel Strike Enters Second Day

The incident comes as the nationwide matatu strike entered its second day on Tuesday following stalled negotiations between transport operators and the government.

Although Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) recently announced a reduction in diesel prices by KSh 10, transport sector stakeholders insist the adjustment is insufficient.

The Matatu Owners Association has maintained that diesel prices should drop by at least KSh 30 per litre to ease operational costs.

Transport operators have vowed to keep vehicles off the roads as further talks with the government continue.