The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has taken a firm stand against the proposed crackdown on public service vehicles and the reintroduction of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) on the roads.

The President of MOA, Albert Karakacha, strongly criticized these measures, stating that they would not effectively address road safety concerns but rather lead to corruption.

He also emphasized the detrimental impact of using the term “crackdown,” suggesting that it could inadvertently encourage corruption within the sector.

“Matatu Owners Association we are not going to allow crackdowns on our roads because when you use that name “crackdown” it encourages corruption,” said Karakacha.

Also, the association raised alarm over the lack of prior consultation before the directive for the crackdown was issued, underscoring the necessity for a more inclusive strategy to address road safety challenges.

NTSA’s regulatory role

Speaking in a press conference held in Nairobi, Karakacha highlighted the role of the NTSA as a regulator, emphasizing that its primary function should not involve direct presence on the roads.

Instead, he called for an increased focus on empowering traffic commandants and deploying more mobile police units to effectively manage traffic in various regions.

Also Read: Matatu Owners Give Murkomen 21-Day Ultimatum Over Toll Fees

He also voiced MOA’s backing for initiatives that entail traffic police actively enforcing traffic laws on the roads.

Furthermore, the president emphasized the need for a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders and the government to improve road safety standards.

MOA CEO Patricia Mutheu, on her part, echoed the sentiments of the association, stressing the significance of dialogue and cooperation in tackling road safety issues.

She acknowledged the concerns raised by the Roads Cabinet Secretary, emphasizing the importance of a united effort between industry players and the government.

“We strongly believe that collaboration and dialogue between industry players and the government are critical in tackling issues related to road safety,” said Mutheu.

Negative impact of the crackdown on Matatu Owners

MOA President Albert Karakacha further expressed concerns that the planned crackdown would negatively impact the industry, urging the government to adopt a more supportive and collaborative approach rather than resorting to forceful measures.

“We urge the Minister wherever there is a problem on accidents, he should not come very wildly to start pushing matatus out of the road we are businessmen, and we need support from the government,” he said.

He also defended matatus against accusations of being the primary cause of accidents, highlighting the need for a balanced and constructive approach to addressing road safety concerns.

Murkomen’s order

Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen had ordered a comprehensive set of measures to address the escalating road accidents, including the immediate reassessment of drivers operating Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and heavy commercial vehicles.

Also Read: Murkomen Directs Return of NTSA on Kenyan Roads

 Murkomen revealed that he had collaborated with his Interior counterpart Kithure Kindiki   to overturn a directive issued in 2018 by former President Uhuru Kenyatta that withdrew the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) from enforcement duties.

This move was aimed at establishing a collaborative framework between NTSA and the National Police Service (NPS) for more effective enforcement of road safety regulations.