The matatu strike is finally over, that’s if the reports from the leaders of the matatu operators association are anything to go by. Kenyans woke up to a rude shock as transport was paralyzed in almost all parts of the country as the matatu operators kept their vehicles from the roads to protest the ongoing matatu crackdown.
The situation was no different in Migori with operators packing their vehicles while demanding alternative means of livelihood, from the government.
Members of Migori matatu owners association challenged the government to walk the talk and offer the promised 500,000 new jobs they promised the nation they would provide annually. The Sacco called upon the government to be realistic before they render thousands of touts, terminal clerks and drivers jobless.
The Federation of Public Transport Operators in a presser this afternoon decided to call off their countrywide strike.
As if reacting to Matiangi’s directive that licenses of the matatus on strike be withdrawn, the matatu operators called off the nationwide strike and even went ahead to apologize to Kenyans. They promised to comply with the new rules.
The matatu operators were speaking after a meeting with Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho and his Transport counterpart Esther Koimett at Harambee house.
“We are glad to have had this meeting and have listened to what we have discussed. I apologise to our passengers and we will be back on the road,” said the federation spokesperson Edwin Mukabana.
“We request our people who have complied to return their vehicles to the road. We will bring all issues to the government table for negotiations.”
PS Kibicho, on his part, acknowledged the clogging at the vehicle inspection unit and vowed to enhance capacity to ensure the transport sector remains smooth.
“We have also heard of cartels in the sector and are committed in the next couple of days to clean the stages of these cartels,” said Kibicho.
“The federation has also brought to our attention the unfair transportation, such as proboxes, not subjected to these rules. We will enforce the ban against legitimate sector players.”
The Interior PS also lauded the federation for their commitment to abide by the traffic laws, adding that a transport consultative forum will be formed within the next week to look into areas that need review and fresh approach.