Why matatu operators went on strike

By Cyrus Ombati, Peter Opiyo and Boniface Gikandi

Public transport was paralysed in Nairobi as matatu operators protesting harassment by police and Mungiki sect followers withdrew vehicles.

Some claimed they were protesting police harassment while others said they feared being attacked by Mungiki gangs.

And police suspected the protest was organised by Mungiki followers.

Commuters were caught unaware by the boycott that started by 7am.

Some operators operated from 5am but later withdrew.

"We are virtually hostages because we are extorted by police and Mungiki gangs operating on our routes," said one operator on Thika Road.

Meeting failed

The operators defied an earlier call by their leaders not to boycott duty.

Internal security PS Francis Kimemia met matatu operators’ representatives on Monday and asked them to call off the strike.

Several matatus that defied the call to strike were stoned by goons who operated in groups on Ngong Road, Thika Road, Kawangware and Kikuyu.

The touts and drivers claimed police had been arresting and demanding bribes from them without basis.

Some said they were branded as Mungiki and asked for bribes before they were released.

Some officers watched from a distance as those who tried to operate were stonned.

"Some of our colleagues have been arrested and are facing interdiction for using their weapons in such protests... We will watch as they destroy property," said an officer who did not wish to be quoted.

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