Traffic Law Violations by Government Official’s Son’s Matatu Spark Protests
The Matatu Crew Welfare Association is raising alarms over what they describe as rampant discrimination in the enforcement of justice within the matatu industry. The association claims that two matatus operating along the Ngong-Nairobi route are flagrantly violating traffic laws in plain sight of traffic police. These vehicles, allegedly owned by the son of a high-ranking government official, appear to enjoy immunity from prosecution due to police fears of job loss or transfer.
Association chairman Wilfred Bosire expressed frustration over the situation, noting, “Kuna magari watu wanasema ni za serikali, gari haina at jina ya Sacco…gari inakuja hapa inareverse kwa roundabout, askari wanaangalia tu.” The association’s concerns include harassment and obstruction caused by these matatus, which operate without PSV insurance and are not part of any Sacco, as required by law.
Citizen TV’s investigations confirmed these claims, revealing that the vehicles lack Road Service Licenses (RSL) and have not undergone the necessary inspections. Filming at the Railways roundabout captured these matatus flouting queuing rules and obstructing traffic in the presence of passive police officers. Further inquiries confirmed the ownership links to a prominent politician’s son.
Jasper, an investor in the matatu sector, urged journalists to scrutinize the legality of these operations. “Nyinyi kama waandishi wa habari, ningependa mchunguze hiyo gari kama imepita kiwango ya kufanya kazi ya matatu kulingana na sheria za trafiki na NTSA Act,” he stated.
The Matatu Crew Welfare Association plans to hold demonstrations on August 7th, demanding fair treatment and adherence to the law by all operators. “We’re going to demonstrate in Nairobi…we’re going to block all the roads because we can’t accept impunity,” Jasper warned.
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Traffic Law Violations by Government Official’s Son’s Matatu Spark Protests
