Now this is the funniest thing that has happened today. Instead of agreeing with the government’s plan to re-introduce the Michuki rules, Matatu owners decided to stage a nationwide strike bringing the whole country to a standstill.
The matatu sector has for a long time been seen as chaotic and the cause of so many problems to commuters, and staging a strike just re-affirmed that belief among Kenyans.
The government through the Ministries of Interior and that of Transport told off the striking operators, telling them to stop the sideshows since the crackdown is here to stay.
Caged and cornered and knowing that there is no way out, the Federation of Public Transport Operators has now called off their countrywide strike.
In a Monday afternoon meeting at Harambee House called by Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho and his Transport counterpart Esther Koimett, the matatu operators further apologised to commuters and pledged to comply with the rule of law.
“We are glad to have had this meeting and have listened to what we have discussed. I apologize 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.