Kenya Public Transport Federation Ends Nationwide Fuel Strike After State House Meeting

The Federation of Public Transport Sector, including the Matatu Owners Association, ended its nationwide fuel strike on Friday after closed-door talks with President William Ruto at State House Mombasa. The operators said the government agreed to review insurance and auctioneering laws and to address fuel-related operating costs.

They also said further talks would continue with the Ministry of Transport on weighbridge operations and public service vehicle regulations.

President Ruto promised a further Sh10 reduction in diesel prices for the June-July pricing cycle. He also announced plans to engage banks on transport loan relief, review the Insurance Act and Auctioneers Act, and regulate minimum fares for digital taxi operators.

The President directed the National Transport and Safety Authority to allow continued use of graffiti and artwork on public service vehicles in a regulated manner.

The strike, which had entered its second day in several towns, caused major transport disruptions and forced thousands of commuters to walk long distances. Transport sector leaders apologized to Kenyans for the chaos and distanced themselves from reported incidents of violence and vandalism.

Matatu Owners Association of Kenya President Albert Karakacha praised Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja for supporting negotiations and said counties had lost significant revenue during the strike. "We want peace in this country and we want to be united so that we can move forward," Karakacha said.

The government stated there was no fuel shortage and urged Kenyans to remain calm while efforts continue to stabilize prices.