Matatu strike disrupts Nairobi transport as operators air security grievances

The strike, which began during the peak morning rush hour, saw some matatu operators withdraw their services, forcing many commuters to walk to work or seek alternative means of transport.

Within the central business district, striking operators parked vehicles across major roads and streets in an attempt to block traffic flow, worsening congestion.

Police officers were deployed to restore order, impounding several PSV vehicles, removing number plates and towing others away as authorities sought to clear the roads and ease traffic. Transport services gradually resumed later in the morning after the strike was called off.

The disruption unfolded amid conflicting positions within the matatu sector over whether the strike should proceed. While some operators complied with the call to suspend services, others defied it and continued operating, providing limited relief to commuters.

Paul Thiongo, chairperson of Forward Travellers Sacco, said the protests were aimed at pushing for the release of impounded vehicles. He claimed that several vehicles belonging to different saccos had been seized by authorities, warning that further action would be taken if their demands were not addressed.

Albert Karakacha, president of the Matatu Owners Association, said the strike was part of a broader protest that could continue weekly until the operators’ grievances are resolved. He said matatu operators had earlier announced plans for a nationwide strike to protest the alleged torching of their vehicles by boda boda operators.

According to the operators, several public service and private vehicles have been destroyed in attacks attributed to boda boda riders, resulting in losses amounting to millions of shillings. Karakacha claimed that at least 20 vehicles have been burned across the country and called on the government to compensate affected owners.

However, not all matatu leaders supported the strike. Edward Ogega, chairperson of St Mary’s Sacco, distanced his organisation from the protests, saying the issue of insecurity affected various categories of motorists and should not be used to justify halting public transport services.