Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has threatened to mobilise matatu operators across the country to stage a week-long nationwide strike if the government proceeds with planned inspections targeting public service vehicles.
Speaking at his Wamunyoro residence on Tuesday, Gachagua accused President William Ruto’s administration of burdening Kenyans with policies that he said would further increase the cost of doing business in the transport sector.
According to the former deputy president, the proposed inspections would translate into additional expenses for matatu owners and operators, who are already struggling with high operating costs, including fuel prices, insurance, spare parts and existing taxes.
Gachagua warned that should the government fail to suspend the planned exercise, he would rally matatu operators nationwide to withdraw their vehicles from the roads for one week. He argued that such action would demonstrate the critical role the public transport sector plays in sustaining Kenya’s economy.
“If they do not stop these inspections, we will ask matatu operators across the country to park their vehicles for one week,” Gachagua said, adding that the resulting economic slowdown would send a strong message to the government.
He maintained that the administration should prioritise easing the tax burden on transport operators instead of introducing measures that could increase their financial obligations.
The remarks come amid growing debate over government efforts to strengthen regulation and compliance within the public transport sector. Authorities have defended inspections in the past as necessary to enhance road safety, improve service standards and ensure vehicles meet legal requirements.
Gachagua’s latest comments are expected to spark fresh political and public debate, particularly if matatu operators respond positively to his call. However, the government had not immediately responded to the former deputy president’s threats by the time of publication, leaving uncertainty over whether the planned inspections will proceed as scheduled.