Matatu operators in Nairobi disrupted transport on February 2, 2026, by blocking key roads despite a suspension call, protesting vehicle torchings by mobs. They plan to continue strikes every Monday until President William Ruto engages in talks. Police responded by removing number plates and towing vehicles.
On February 2, 2026, matatu operators in Nairobi launched a nationwide strike, blocking major routes including Thika Superhighway, Waiyaki Way, Outering Road at Kariobangi Roundabout, Tom Mboya Street, and Ronald Ngara Street. This action caused severe traffic gridlock, stranding motorists, commuters, students, and workers, with some dropped off along Jogoo Road. The strike, announced on January 28, stems from frustration over the government's failure to curb mob violence against public transport vehicles, particularly after road incidents involving boda boda riders or pedestrians. At least nine vehicles—matatus, buses, trucks, and private cars—have been torched in areas like Juja, Luanda in Vihiga County, and along Thika Superhighway, resulting in millions of shillings in losses and endangering lives.
The Motorist Association of Kenya (MAK) supported the action on January 31, highlighting a 'breakdown of law and order' where 'mob justice has replaced due process.' However, the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) suspended the strike on February 1 to allow dialogue, a call ignored by groups like Forward Travellers. Police deployed tear gas to disperse protesters, removed number plates from blocking vehicles—immobilizing them and requiring fines for return—and towed them to stations.
In a press briefing, Matatu Owners Association President Albert Karagacha vowed strikes every Monday until engagement with President Ruto. 'We will be back in the streets on Monday, and we want to tell our passengers that we are very sorry, but we are trying to battle for your rights,' he said. 'We want to talk to the president himself, because if there are no negotiations, the strike will happen every Monday.' Operators decried police detentions of their vehicles without action against arsonists, claiming 70% success in their first major strike in 13 years. The protests underscore tensions in Kenya's public transport sector, calling for enhanced security and road safety measures.
