The government has finally heard the cry of the Wanjiku’s and the ministry of transport has revealed that it is in advanced stage in ensuring that PSV vehicles are monitored to avoid exploiting Kenyans.
Transport cost should be constant irrespective of the time of the day without considering off peak hours and changes in weather.Mwananchi should not be extorted by the matatu industry in the name of bribing the police. pic.twitter.com/2M3CtByMIc— Babu Owino (@Babu_Owino) March 7, 2019
According to Bomachoge Borabu MP Zadoc Ogutu who first introduce the motion in parliament, in some routes, fares were increased by 100 percent following the re-introduction of “Michuki Rules” last year.
The ministry has drafted amendments to the Traffic Act and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Act seeking to control fares charged by PSVs across the country.
Chief Administrative Secretary Chris Obure, said the proposals are at an advanced stage with the legal department in the ministry and will soon be presented to the Cabinet for adoption before being presented to Parliament.
He said the government is aware of exploitation of the public by the transport sector and the amendments are meant to protect the public.
Under the laws that regulate public transport, there is no express provision that enables the authority to regulate fares.
The committee’s chairman, Mr David Pkosing (Pokot South MP), termed the proposals as long overdue, saying the problem of overcharging the public by PSVs is widespread.
Will matatus survive this time