How government will determine Matatu prices per region

In a surprise move that caught most Kenyans flat-footed, the ministry of transport has tabled a plan to introduce price caps to fares charged on Public Service Vehicles.

Under the drafted amendments, CS Macharia is seeking to empower the ministry to have the autonomous authority to stipulate and control PSV fares across the country.

Regulation

The CS was represented by Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS), Chris Obure, in the presentation to the National Assembly’s Transport and Housing Committee.

“The amendments will ensure effective regulation of fare tariffs by the authority similar to the regulation of petroleum process by the Energy Regulatory Commission,” the CAS divulged.

Image of Transport cabinet Secretary James Macharia

Mr Obure disclosed that the proposed amendments were at a very advanced stage with the legal department, and would soon be presented to the cabinet for adoption prior to being tabled in parliament.

Fares

Upon adoption, the CS will then have the legal authority to stipulate fares for all PSVs as well as determining the penalties for non-compliance.

National Assembly’s Transport and Housing Committee chairman and Pokot South MP, David Pkosing, referred to the proposed amendments as long overdue.

In his presentation, Obure made it clear that the government was fully aware of the rampant exploitation of the public using tactics such as fare hikes in the previously unregulated sector.

He added that the proposed amendments were simply meant to protect the public.

Overcharging

Overcharging by PSVs has been a constant thorn in the flesh of thousands of commuters across the country especially during holidays, bad weather as well as during implementation of certain laws such as the Michuki rules.

The issue was first raised in parliament by Bomachoge Borabu Member of Parliament (MP) Zadoc Ogutu.

Pokot South MP David Pkosing during a past event

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