Matatu operators have suspended their ongoing strike for one week to pave the way for high-level consultations between the government and transport sector stakeholders aimed at resolving disputes over fuel prices and related concerns.
The announcement follows days of disruption across major towns, where commuters were left stranded and transport services paralysed due to industrial action linked to rising fuel costs and operational challenges.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the suspension was reached after agreement on the need for urgent dialogue to address the grievances raised by operators.
“There was need for negotiations with the stakeholders at a high level and they will take place within the next one week,” Murkomen said.
He added that pausing the strike would allow consultations to proceed smoothly while reducing further disruption to economic activities and public transport.
“The strike to be suspended for one week to provide an avenue for consultations,” he added.
Federation of Public Transport Sector CEO Kushian Muchiri welcomed the move, saying negotiations had already begun in earnest, though he noted that earlier engagement could have helped avoid the disruption experienced in recent days.
“As much as we would have been happy, we are also glad that at least negotiations have started in earnest,” Muchiri said.
He urged operators to resume normal operations, expressing confidence that the talks would yield positive outcomes within the week.
“We want to assure our members that within the next seven days we shall have done the best of negotiations,” he said.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki defended the government’s fuel pricing policy, saying part of the fuel levy remains necessary to support infrastructure development and other essential services.
He said the government must balance cushioning citizens from high fuel prices with sustaining funding for roads, education and social services.
“The remaining portion of tax is essential for the construction of our road infrastructure and the maintenance of the roads to support the economy,” Kindiki said.