Matatus to Operate Normally During June 25 Protests, Association Assures Public

The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has assured Kenyans that public transport services will continue uninterrupted as the country marks the first anniversary of the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.

In a statement, MOA Chairperson Albert Karakacha said the sector remains committed to serving the public while respecting constitutional rights and prioritising safety amid planned demonstrations.

“The public transport sector remains committed to serving Kenyans and facilitating the movement of people and goods accordingly. Matatu operations will continue as normal while respecting the constitutional rights of all citizens and public safety,” said Karakacha.

The assurance comes as parts of the country prepare to commemorate the protests that rocked the nation in June last year, leading to loss of lives, injuries and widespread public debate over governance and accountability.

Karakacha expressed solidarity with families and individuals affected by the protests, saying justice and accountability remain critical for national healing.

“The Matatu Owners Association stands in solidarity with the families and loved ones affected by the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests. We believe that justice, accountability, and respect for the rule of law remain essential to national healing,” he said.

The association called on matatu owners, drivers, conductors and other transport workers to remain calm, exercise restraint and continue offering services professionally.

At the same time, MOA condemned acts of violence and destruction of property that have occasionally accompanied demonstrations.

“The safety and well-being of our passengers, transport workers, vehicles, business, and the public remain the foremost priority,” Karakacha stated.

He said the association strongly opposes vandalism, arson, looting and any other forms of violence that could endanger lives or disrupt economic activities.

The transport lobby further urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, businesses and community leaders, to embrace dialogue and work together to promote peace and national unity.

Karakacha noted that the matatu industry, which plays a crucial role in moving millions of Kenyans daily, remains focused on its core mandate of transporting passengers and supporting economic activity.

“We are businessmen. Our work is to ferry passengers. We know very well that wherever there is even a holiday, we normally carry passengers. We are in business and we are just urging the public, wherever they are, there will be matatus on the road carrying passengers as usual,” he said.

The matatu sector has previously warned that disruptions arising from demonstrations often result in significant revenue losses for operators while affecting the movement of workers, students and goods across the country.

Read: The Real Cost of Protests: When Constitutional Rights Collide with Economic Survival

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