Matatu crew threaten to strike over harassment

Passengers travel on top of an overloaded matatu plying Makima - Embu route in Mbeere South, Embu County. PHOTO: FILE/STANDARD

EMBU: Matatu drivers and conductors have threatened to go on strike to protest harassment by Government agencies. They also accused their employers and saccos of failing to address their welfare and concerns.

Under the auspices of Digital Matatu Drivers Association, the over 400 public service vehicles crew complained that the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) was partial in implementing laws meant to regulate the industry.

They said despite complying with the law that requires them to install speed governors and car tracking devices, the agency had allowed matatus from other regions to out speed them meaning they do not have the speed gadgets.

They said upon expiry of their PSVs licenses, they are issued with waiting notes, which NTSA officials do not recognise.

The association chairman, Ali Aden, said whenever their members get arrested for various traffic offenses, the vehicle owner or the Sacco bails it out and leaves the driver to bear the legal burden on his own.

Mr Aden said one sacco had been deducting Sh1,600 statutory deductions from them since last year but on checking with the National Hospital Insurance Fund, the money was not remitted.

"We have suffered for long working for people who do not mind our welfare," he said.