Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has urged President William Ruto to immediately open dialogue with transport stakeholders following the nationwide matatu strike that paralysed movement across the country on Monday.
In a statement issued on May 18, Kalonzo said the government should engage transport operators instead of ignoring their concerns, warning that the crisis was worsening the economic burden on Kenyans.
“President Ruto must direct his administration to open a genuine and immediate dialogue with the transport sector alliance. Their grievances are real, and stonewalling them is negligence,” Kalonzo stated.
The strike was triggered by the latest fuel price hike announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). Petrol prices increased by KSh16.65 per litre, while diesel rose by KSh46.29, pushing fuel prices to record highs.
The increase sparked protests from matatu operators, boda boda riders, taxi drivers, and freight transporters, who said the rising costs had made operations unsustainable. Some PSV operators were forced to increase fares by up to 50%.
The strike disrupted transport services in Nairobi and other towns, leaving thousands stranded as protesters blocked roads and lit bonfires in some areas.
Kalonzo accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of failing to consult stakeholders before implementing the fuel price changes. He warned that the continued rise in fuel prices would increase the cost of living, affect supply chains, and raise the prices of essential commodities.
The opposition leader also called on Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi to reverse the fuel price hike and resign, accusing him of failing to protect Kenyans from punitive economic policies.
He further urged the government to introduce a transparent fuel pricing framework to shield citizens from sudden price increases.