Share
The Federation of Public Transport Sector has called off the Matatu strike that was scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, following stakeholder consultations.
In a notice shared by the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS), the decision was reached after discussions between representatives of Boda Boda operators, PSV operators and security agencies.
“Following consultations between representatives of Boda Boda Operators, PSV Operators and Security Agencies, it was agreed that the Matatu Strike scheduled for Monday February 2, 2026 be suspended to give dialogue a chance.”
The statement further indicated that additional consultations will be held to address the issues that had led to the planned industrial action. The aim is to find a lasting and peaceful solution through structured engagement.
Dialogue to Continue Among Key Stakeholders
“It was agreed that further consultations shall be done between representatives of Private Vehicle Owners, Freight Vehicle Operators, Coach Operators, Matatu Operators, National Police Service and National Transport and Safety Authority with a view of reaching an amicable solution.”
The involvement of the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) signals a coordinated effort between transport operators and government agencies to ease tensions within the sector.
Why Operators Had Planned the Strike
The suspension comes after mounting tension within the transport industry, where motorists and operators have raised concerns over what they describe as rising lawlessness and impunity on Kenyan roads.
Also Read:Businessman Missing After Alleged DCI Arrest While Carrying Ksh 17 Million in Cash
Earlier, the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) had announced that private and commercial drivers would join a nationwide protest scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026.
In a statement issued on Saturday, January 31, 2026, the association cited “rising lawlessness and impunity” and accused the government of remaining silent on their security demands.
The planned strike followed a string of attacks targeting vehicles across the country.
Transport operators claim that in just one month, mobs have set fire to at least nine vehicles, including matatus, buses, trucks and private cars.
Several of the incidents reportedly occurred after road accidents involving pedestrians or boda boda riders in areas such as Juja, Luanda in Vihiga County and along the Thika Superhighway.
Industry members had warned that failure to restore order and guarantee the safety of motorists would result in a total shutdown, potentially paralysing transport services nationwide.
Police Respond to Security Concerns
Addressing the growing concerns, Nairobi Police Commander George Seda cautioned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands.
“It is not right to take the law into your hands, imagine you’ve had an accident.
You also torch the vehicle.
Now, maybe they say that that’s the procedure of investigations, and you would have gotten compensation through insurance.
Where are we now going to get this compensation?” Seda stated.
He further warned that burning vehicles complicates investigations and leaves victims at a disadvantage.
“The number plate that was involved in the accident, you’ve now torched it.
You are still going to be languishing as a victim.
Even if you were hit and your leg was broken, and you torched the vehicle.
How are we going to make you okay now?” he added.
With dialogue now underway, stakeholders are expected to engage in further consultations aimed at addressing security concerns and preventing future disruptions in the country’s transport sector.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for Instant News Updates
FPTS during a meeting with PS Mohammed Daghar to address Public Transport challenges
PHOTO/FPTS/File
You Might also Like
