Matatu operators have opposed a government proposal that would give the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) powers to regulate public service vehicle fares.
The proposal seeks to end the current system where operators increase or reduce fares at their own discretion, especially during peak hours, bad weather and public holidays.
If approved, NTSA would have powers to set both the minimum and maximum fares that PSV operators can charge commuters.
The move is aimed at protecting passengers from arbitrary fare hikes that have become common across the country.
However, matatu operators say the proposal will hurt the industry.
They argue that fare adjustments are often influenced by rising fuel prices, spare parts, insurance costs and other operating expenses.
According to the operators, fixing fares would make it difficult for them to cope with changing economic conditions.
“This is a liberalised sector. Prices should be determined by market forces, not government control,” industry players have argued.
Supporters of the proposal, however, say commuters deserve protection from sudden fare increases, especially during periods of high demand.
If passed, the changes would mark one of the biggest shifts in the regulation of Kenya’s matatu sector in years.
The proposal is expected to spark fresh debate between the government, transport operators and consumer rights groups as lawmakers consider the amendments.
