NAIROBI, Kenya — Albert Karakacha has announced that a definitive directive on the ongoing nationwide matatu strike will be issued at 5 pm on Monday as the government moves to contain the growing transport crisis triggered by rising fuel prices.
The announcement came as National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed he would chair a high-level meeting involving matatu operators and senior government officials to seek a solution to the nationwide shutdown.
In a statement released amid widespread transport disruptions, Karakacha said the communication expected later in the day would clarify the next phase of the industrial action and provide timelines on the strike.
“A definitive directive will be issued at 5 pm today. This communication will outline the next phase of our action and provide clarity on the expected timeline,” Karakacha said.
Government Moves to Contain Crisis
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Mbadi said the meeting would bring together officials from the National Treasury, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Energy, and representatives from the matatu sector.
“This afternoon at 4 pm we have a meeting of the National Treasury, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Energy, and matatu operators,” Mbadi said.
“We want them first to understand where we are and then explore any possibility of further action.”
The strike, sparked by rising fuel costs and the increasing cost of living, has seen matatus, cargo transporters, boda boda riders, ride-hailing operators, and some private motorists withdraw services across the country.
According to the Matatu Owners Association, the shutdown had been widely observed nationwide.
“The suspension of transport services is being observed across the country. Commercial transport operators, private motorists, and rig owners have voluntarily withdrawn from the roads, resulting in a successful, peaceful, and comprehensive national shutdown,” the association stated.
Commuters Stranded Across Major Towns
The transport paralysis left thousands of commuters stranded in Nairobi and other major towns, forcing many workers and students to walk long distances or seek costly alternatives.
Several roads in Nairobi and the surrounding areas witnessed protests and barricades, with groups of youth blocking roads using stones and burning tyres.
Despite the tension, Karakacha appealed for calm and urged protesters to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
“We urge the general public, drivers, SACCO leadership, and all stakeholders to remain calm and conduct themselves strictly within the law. Avoid provocation and maintain discipline at all times,” he said.
The association also warned against violence, intimidation, and destruction of property during the demonstrations.
“We uphold a firm zero-tolerance stance against violence, harassment, intimidation, or vandalism. Any unlawful conduct should be reported immediately to law enforcement agencies,” Karakacha added.
The group further appealed to demonstrators to allow free passage for ambulances, fire engines, and other emergency vehicles during the protests.
Meanwhile, concerns continue to grow over the economic impact of the strike as businesses, schools, and daily transport operations remain disrupted.
