The nationwide matatu strike scheduled for Monday, February 9, has taken a new turn following consultations with the government and security agencies.
This second matatu strike was initially scheduled for this Monday, but will now be on hold for at least two weeks to allow continued negotiations and the implementation of agreed safety measures.
In a press briefing on Saturday, February 7, Intercorridor Mobility representative Joseph Kagai confirmed the suspension, saying it was made in good faith despite several unresolved issues.
“We have engaged deliberately, and although not all matters have been resolved, we have agreed, out of goodwill, to suspend the Monday strike and continue addressing the outstanding concerns,” Kagai said.
Talks Focus on Security Concerns
According to Kagai, discussions centred on insecurity and recent attacks targeting public service vehicles (matatu), particularly involving boda boda riders.
He added that dialogue will continue over the next two weeks to address outstanding issues.
“We are giving dialogue a chance by allowing teams to sit down, negotiate, and iron out all the issues within the next two weeks,” Kagai said.
The suspension was welcomed by commuters, who had been preparing for potential transport disruptions following last week’s matatu strike.
Peter Murima of the Motorists Association of Kenya praised the government’s commitment to resolving the issues but cautioned motorists to remain vigilant.
“This decision is informed by the seriousness shown by the government that action will be taken. These attacks are unlawful, and anyone caught on camera damaging a vehicle will be charged,” Murima said.
Law Enforcement Oversight
Last week, a matatu strike went ahead despite the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) stating that no industrial action would take place.
Also Read: Latest Update on Nationwide Matatu Strike Planned for Tomorrow
Following recent discussions, most stakeholders, including MAK, appear aligned on the next steps.
Regional Police Commander George Seda stated that law enforcement agencies would uphold the rule of law.
“Kenya is a functional state. If an incident has occurred, there are steps that must be followed. Let us stop taking the law into our own hands,” he said.
Matatu strike brings Nairobi traffic to a standstill
Transport in Nairobi came to a standstill on Monday, February 2, as some matatu operators went on strike, blocking major roads and leaving thousands of commuters stranded across the city.
Also Read: Massive Traffic Disruption in Nairobi as Matatu Strike Kicks Off
Despite earlier reports that the strike had been suspended following talks between stakeholders, including the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS), some operators ignored the directive and parked their vehicles along key routes, triggering widespread gridlock.
Traffic chaos was reported along the Thika Superhighway, Waiyaki Way, Outer Ring Road, Jogoo Road, and in the Central Business District (CBD), where matatus parked in the middle of the road, bringing traffic to a complete halt.
Commuters were forced to turn to alternatives, including boda bodas, ride-hailing services with sharply increased fares, or walking long distances.
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