Uncertainty has emerged in the public transport sector after the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) and the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) issued conflicting statements over the status of a nationwide matatu strike scheduled for Monday, February 2.
MOA on Sunday dismissed reports that the planned industrial action had been called off, insisting that the strike remains in force, reinforcing an earlier stance.
The association said no agreement has been reached with the relevant authorities and warned that public transport services will remain disrupted until the grievances raised by matatu owners are addressed.
“The nationwide matatu strike scheduled for Monday, 2nd February, remains in effect,” MOA said, describing claims that the strike had been suspended as “false and misleading.”
The association urged commuters to rely only on its official communication channels for accurate information and advised the public to make alternative travel arrangements as services are expected to be paralysed nationwide.
While noting that engagements with stakeholders were ongoing, MOA maintained that it would not lift the strike without tangible outcomes.
“MOA and the matatu fraternity remain committed to constructive engagement in the interest of a fair, sustainable, and professional public transport sector,” the statement said.
In contrast, FPTS announced that the strike had been suspended following consultations among transport stakeholders.
In a statement issued in Nairobi, the federation said representatives of boda boda operators, public service vehicle (PSV) operators and security agencies agreed to pause the strike to allow further dialogue.
“It was agreed that the strike be suspended to give dialogue a chance,” FPTS said, adding that the decision was aimed at creating a conducive environment for negotiations and avoiding disruption to commuter services.
FPTS said further talks would involve private vehicle owners, freight and coach operators, matatu operators, the National Police Service and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to reach an amicable solution that addresses sector-wide concerns.
The federation urged commuters to continue using public transport normally, assuring the public that efforts were underway to resolve outstanding issues.
The contradictory positions have left commuters uncertain, particularly in major towns and cities where matatus form the backbone of daily transport.
Past strikes have resulted in widespread disruption, forcing workers and students to walk long distances or turn to more expensive transport options.
By the time of publication, authorities had not issued an official response to clarify the status of the strike, deepening uncertainty ahead of Monday.
