NAIROBI, Kenya — East Africa Tour Guides and Drivers Association (EATGDA) Chief Executive Officer Kennedy Kaunda has dismissed allegations that transport sector representatives received bribes to call off a planned strike over rising fuel prices.
Kaunda said there was no final agreement reached with government officials and maintained that transport operators and commuters are still struggling under high fuel costs.
He added that the decision to suspend the strike was based on goodwill to allow continued dialogue with the government, not financial inducement.
Denial of “brown envelope” claims
Kaunda rejected claims circulating online that stakeholders were paid to abandon the planned industrial action, saying he had not seen any such payments.
He argued that the focus should remain on the economic pressure facing commuters and operators rather than unverified allegations.
“We had goodwill, and that was the goodwill we gave out after seven days,” Kaunda said.
He noted that many vehicles are operating below capacity as passengers cut back on transport due to rising costs.
Talks still ongoing
The transport leader said discussions with government officials had not yet produced a final agreement on fuel pricing.
He explained that a joint press briefing held after a lengthy meeting had reflected only a temporary pause to allow further consultations.
According to him, stakeholders and government officials met for several hours before agreeing to postpone the decision pending further engagement.
Sector pressures amid fuel concerns
Kaunda warned that continued instability in fuel prices is affecting both commuters and operators, adding that the tourism high season could worsen pressure on the transport system if disruptions occur.
He said the sector is seeking a sustainable solution that balances affordability for commuters and viability for operators.
Public reaction and controversy
The issue has sparked public debate online, with some Kenyans questioning the decision to suspend the planned strike without a formal agreement.
Kaunda said he has been confronted by members of the public seeking clarification on the allegations, which he described as misleading.
He maintained that his comments during negotiations were intended to ensure transparency and clarity in discussions with government officials.
The talks involved senior officials from the Energy and Transport ministries, alongside representatives from the matatu sector, in ongoing efforts to address fuel pricing concerns.
