Matatu operators threaten to strike over NTSA suspensions

A bus belonging to Embassava Sacco. The National Transport and Safety Authority has suspended the sacco until it meets set conditions. FILE PHOTO | NATION MEDIA GROUP 

In Summary

• The protest follows suspension of Embassava Sacco after one of their drivers caused a crash on Jogoo Road.
• NTSA Road Safety Director Mathew Munyao however defended the regulator saying Saccos should ensure all their staff comply with set rules.

By OTIATO GUGUYU
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Matatu operators have threatened to go on strike on Wednesday to protest against National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) rule that slaps a blanket suspension on all public service vehicles of a Sacco when one commits a traffic offence.

The Matatu Welfare Association claims that the collective punishment of all vehicles is harsh.

Addressing a press conference in Nairobi on Saturday, MWA chairperson Dickson Mbugua demanded the removal of NTSA Director General Mr Francis Meja.

The protest follows suspension of Embassava Sacco after one of their drivers caused a crash on Jogoo Road.

NTSA Road Safety Director Mathew Munyao however defended the regulator saying matatu saccos should ensure all their staff comply with set rules.

“If they don’t want suspensions then they should comply with the law,” he said.

He said Embassava Sacco was issued with a letter stating the conditions they should meet for the suspension to be lifted.

“They had not met other conditions and this was discovered during investigations after the crash. They need to fix the management problem in Sacco and also do capacity building for their staff,” he said.