Matatu operators have called off a nationwide transport strike for seven days to give room for negotiations with the government over the rising fuel prices and the high cost of doing business.
This was revealed by the Transport Sector Alliance following deliberations with government officials, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, and Transport CS Davis Chirchir.
Matatu and boda boda operators protested recent hikes in fuel prices announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), leading to transport paralysis in Nairobi, Kiambu, Nakuru, Kisumu and several other counties.
However, the operators said the reduction was still inadequate. Later, EPRA reduced diesel prices by KSh10.06 per litre after pressure from the public and transport stakeholders.
Now, transport chiefs hope the government will factor in fuel taxes and levies during the seven-day negotiation window. They said they might call off the strike if the talks did not lead to a lasting solution.
