Matatu operators have announced weekly Monday strikes, escalating a standoff with the government over insecurity and unresolved grievances.
Public transport services across major towns are set to face continued disruption after matatu operators declared they will stage a go-slow every Monday. The decision was announced by Matatu Owners Association (MOA) President Albert Karakacha, who said the action is a response to what operators see as the government’s failure to address their concerns, especially growing insecurity affecting the sector.
Speaking during an interview on Monday, Karakacha said the weekly strike will continue indefinitely until the government engages the association at the highest level. He made it clear that the operators are not backing down and will maintain pressure until their issues are taken seriously. According to him, the protest is aimed at forcing meaningful dialogue rather than inconveniencing the public.
“We will be doing it every Monday. If there are no negotiations by next Monday, we will still be on the road until our concerns are heard,” Karakacha said. He apologised to commuters affected by the transport disruptions, insisting that the protests are meant to protect both matatu operators and passengers. He added that the insecurity facing the industry ultimately affects the safety of commuters as well.
Karakacha also ruled out talks with Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, stating that the association only wants to engage directly with President William Ruto. He said matatu operators feel abandoned despite raising repeated complaints. According to Karakacha, the president had previously promised to protect the property and safety of Kenyans, and operators now want him to intervene personally.
The announcement came as Nairobi experienced widespread traffic chaos, particularly along Waiyaki Way in Westlands and nearby areas. Transport operations were heavily disrupted as matatus reduced services or operated irregularly. From early morning, congestion built up rapidly as motorists attempted to bypass traffic using wrong lanes and unauthorised routes.
The situation quickly worsened when vehicles overlapped and blocked key intersections, bringing traffic to a near standstill in both directions. Police officers were deployed in large numbers at major junctions and matatu stages to manage the crisis. Officers were seen redirecting vehicles, breaking up small groups, and trying to restore order, although their efforts were undermined by drivers ignoring traffic rules.
The strike threat dates back to January 28, when matatu operators first announced plans for nationwide protests. The association cited alleged torching of matatus by boda boda operators and accused the government of failing to address rising hostility and violence targeting the sector. Operators say the continued insecurity has exposed them to losses and left their livelihoods at risk.