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Kenyan commuters could soon face another wave of transport disruptions after matatu operators warned they may return to the streets in protest if the government fails to respond to their demands over soaring fuel prices and heavy taxation. The warning comes just days after a temporary truce paused a nationwide strike that had paralysed movement in several towns.

Highlights

Matatu operators have threatened to resume their nationwide strike next week.
PSV owners say rising fuel prices and taxes are crippling the transport sector.
Operators claim many businesses are still making losses despite increased fares.
Government and transport leaders are currently engaged in negotiations.
Thousands of commuters were recently affected by transport disruptions across the country.

Main Story

Public transport operators across Kenya have warned that another nationwide matatu shutdown could happen if ongoing talks with the government fail to deliver solutions to the fuel price crisis.

The Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) says operators only suspended the recent strike temporarily to create room for negotiations. However, the group insists patience is running out and services could once again be halted if no agreement is reached by next week.

Operators Say Business Has Become Unsustainable

FPTS Chief Executive Officer Kushian Muchiri said many operators are struggling to keep their businesses running due to the sharp increase in fuel costs and numerous taxes affecting the transport industry.

According to him, even after fare hikes, many PSV owners are still operating at a loss because passengers are avoiding travel whenever possible. Some commuters have reportedly opted to walk or remain at home instead of paying the higher transport charges.

The operators are now demanding immediate action from Parliament and the government to lower fuel prices and reduce taxation affecting the sector.

Recent Strike Left Thousands Stranded

The warning follows days of chaos in Nairobi and several other towns after matatus, taxis and boda boda riders staged coordinated protests over fuel prices. The demonstrations disrupted transport services and left thousands of Kenyans stranded while trying to get to work or school.

Following talks between government officials and transport sector representatives, both sides agreed to suspend the strike for seven days to allow fresh discussions on possible solutions.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that negotiations would continue until May 26 as the government attempts to address concerns raised by operators.

Fear of More Disruptions

Despite the temporary agreement, PSV operators maintain that they are ready to return to industrial action if no meaningful intervention is announced within the coming days.

If the talks collapse, another shutdown could trigger fresh commuter frustrations, business losses and economic disruptions across the country as Kenyans continue to grapple with the rising cost of living.

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