Matatu operators have been urged to prioritise passenger safety and continue serving commuters as usual on Thursday, June 25.
In a statement, the Matatu Owners Association of Kenya assured the public that public transport services will operate normally despite concerns over possible disruptions linked to activities marking the anniversary of the 2024 protests.
MoA Chairman Albert Karakacha urged all matatu owners, drivers, crew and staff to remain calm, exercise restraint, and maintain professionalism while providing services to Kenyans who rely on public transport for their daily activities.
“While we are aware of concerns regarding possible disruptions, we encourage all matatu owners, drivers, crew and staff to remain calm, exercise restraint, and continue providing transport services responsibly and professionally,” Karakacha said.
He noted that the association recognised the impact of the June 25, 2024, events and stood with families affected by the protests, while calling for justice, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
“MoA stands in solidarity with the families and loved ones affected by the events of June 25, 2024. We believe that justice, accountability and respect for the rule of law remain essential to national healing,” Karakacha said.
The assurance comes amid concerns over possible disruptions as Kenyans prepare to mark the anniversary of the protests that resulted in unrest in parts of the country and triggered discussions on policing, civic responsibility and reforms in the handling of public demonstrations.
Karakacha emphasised that the transport sector remained committed to ensuring that commuters continue accessing services without interruption during the period.
“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 prioritising public safety,” MoA said.
MoA also condemned violence and destruction of property, warning that such actions put passengers, transport workers, vehicles and businesses at risk.
“MoA strongly condemns all forms of violence, vandalism, arson, looting and destruction of property. The safety and well-being of passengers, transport workers, vehicles, businesses and the public remains our foremost priority,” reads the statement.
The association called on citizens, community leaders, civil society organisations, businesses and government agencies to support peaceful engagement and promote calm during the anniversary period.
The Commuters Association of Kenya (CAK) welcomed the decision by matatu operators to continue providing services during the planned anniversary protests and joined calls against violence targeting public service vehicles.
“CAK welcomes the Matatu Owners Association’s decision to keep PSVs operating during the planned June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests, and we firmly join them in condemning violence, vandalism, and arson targeting matatus,” reads the statement.
CAK said public service vehicles are a key means of transport for millions of Kenyans and warned that attacks on vehicles hurt commuters who depend on them.
“PSVs are lifelines for the over 70 per cent of Kenyans who depend on them daily; torching a bus punishes the very commuters whose protests claim to defend, not the state. We urge demonstrators to keep their grievances peaceful and direct them at institutions, not at vehicles, drivers, or stranded passengers,” the Association said.
The commuters’ group also urged police to protect transport workers and passengers while respecting Kenyans’ constitutional right to assemble.
“We equally call on police to protect PSV crews and commuters from harm while respecting Kenyans’ constitutional right to assemble. Commuters should plan for likely route disruptions and delays regardless, and exercise caution near protest flashpoints,” CAK said.
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