Kennedy Kaunda, a transport sector representative, stole the limelight in a press briefing on the ongoing matatu strike stalemate after he publicly contradicted the government’s claims of progress in resolving the ongoing fuel dispute during a live press briefing.
The moment came on May 18, when Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi told the media that discussions between the government and transport stakeholders had made progress and that an understanding on fuel prices had been reached
“I must also add that EPRA was fully involved in those deliberations, and this common understanding has been arrived at unanimously,” Wandayi said.
However, Kennedy Kaunda, CEO of the East Africa Tour Guides and Drivers Association (EATGDA), interjected to challenge that position, clarifying that no agreement had been reached and that the planned strike would proceed.
“There are things we do not agree here… we did not agree on anything… the strike is still on.”
Kenyans Commend Kennedy Kaunda for Pushing Back at Wandayi
Kennedy Kaunda explained that while the government proposed a diesel price reduction of about KSh 10 through engagement with the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), stakeholders in the transport sector had pushed for a significantly higher reduction of between KSh 30 and KSh 35.
Also Read: CS Wandayi Reveals Causes of Nairobi Power Outages After Heavy Rains
His remarks revealed a difference between what Wandayi had communicated and what stakeholders at the meeting had accepted.
Kaunda, who represents tour operators and drivers, is not among the matatu sector leadership but was present as part of the broader transport industry affected by rising fuel costs.
His intervention clarified that negotiations were still ongoing and that demands had not been addressed.
Kenyans welcomed the clarification, saying it helped correct what they viewed as a misleading impression that a deal had already been reached.
One X user, Jared Kiptoo, wrote that it was a moment the public had been waiting for, noting that Kaunda spoke politely but firmly while sticking to the facts.
“This is the real ‘With all due respect’ we needed! Mzee spoke politely but firmly. Legend! Noted Jared.
Others described Kennedy Kaunda as composed and candid, noting that he maintained a respectful tone while firmly stating the position of stakeholders.
Another commenter, Citizen Mutahi, said the country needs more fearless individuals like Kennedy Kaunda, adding that he stood his ground and declined to support what they viewed as misleading information.
“Kenya needs more fearless people like this man, Kennedy Kaunda. He refused to be used to lie to the nation. Hero!” stated Mutahi.
Transport Sector Calls for EPRA Disbandment Over Rising Fuel Costs
Boda boda riders, taxi operators, and matatu owners across Kenya commenced the nationwide strike on Monday, May 18, and extended it through May 19, following the increase in fuel prices announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Also Read: Boda Bodas, Taxis Join Nationwide Matatu Strike Over Fuel Hike
In a statement on May 16, the Motorists Association of Kenya said transport stakeholders would down their tools to protest recent fuel price increases.
“Under the Transport Alliance, transport associations hereby issue a nationwide strike notice effective Monday, 18th May 2026, in protest of the continued sharp and unjustified increase in fuel prices imposed by the Government through EPRA,” read part of the statement.
The strike was organized under the Transport Alliance after a meeting in Nairobi, where different groups agreed to stop operations across the country.
Those who have joined the strike include matatu operators, boda boda associations, digital taxi drivers, cargo and freight transporters, tourist vehicle operators, and private motorists. Other fuel-dependent groups, such as generator operators, have also backed the action.
