“No More Protection, No More Business”: Matatu Operators Threaten Nationwide Strike Over Rising Boda Boda Attacks

Matatu owners across Kenya have threatened a nationwide strike starting Monday. They cite rising attacks by boda boda riders. Several matatus and private vehicles have been torched. Operators say reports to the police, NTSA, and transport authorities have been ignored.

MOA chairperson Albert Karakacha said owners no longer feel safe. “Our vehicles have been burned; we talked to the police, we have written to the transport minister, and nothing has happened. From Monday, we will withdraw all vehicles from the roads until the government listens to us,” he said. Private property is at risk, he added. Authorities must act now.

Operators insist they do not want to take the law into their own hands. However, frustration is growing. Joseph Kagai, Inter-Corridor Mobility chairperson, said, “We don’t want to take the law into our hands, but it seems those supposed to protect us have other businesses.” He warned that repeated attacks could force operators to respond directly.

The strike could halt public transport in major towns and cities. “From Monday, in all major towns, cities, and roundabouts, there will be no passing until the government addresses this. There will be no business as usual,” Kagai said. Operators also demand compensation for owners whose vehicles have been destroyed.

At least nine vehicles, including matatus and private cars, have been torched in the past six months. Two more incidents happened over the past weekend. Peter Murima, Motorists Association of Kenya chairperson, said, “Boda boda operators have become the judge, jury, and executioner.”

Operators are appealing directly to President William Ruto. “The only person we are going to listen to is the President because the NTSA, the CS, nobody is listening,” Karakacha said. Without urgent action, Kenya’s public transport system faces major disruption.