Strike is on, no deal in fuel talks matatu operators say

Strike is on, no deal in fuel talks matatu operators say

A standoff between the government and stakeholders in the matatu sector remained unresolved Monday night after hours of talks failed to break the deadlock that has paralysed public transport across the country.

Negotiations led by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir and Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi stretched into the night, but no agreement was reached by the time the parties addressed the media at around 9:30 p.m.

In a joint press briefing, Wandayi initially suggested that progress had been made and that the discussions had yielded results. However, officials from the matatu sector interrupted the briefing, insisting that no final deal had been agreed upon.

The stakeholders said there was consensus on addressing concerns over fuel adulteration, with proposals expected to lower the price of diesel while increasing the price of kerosene to match diesel rates.
The move, they argued, would eliminate the price disparity that has encouraged the illegal mixing of the two fuels.

The government indicated that the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority would announce revised fuel prices later Monday night.

Despite the discussions, the matatu sector maintained its hardline stance, signalling continued disruption in public transport services.

The government delegation had to leave the briefing for the matatu stakeholders to continue addressing the media.

Matatu Owners Association boss Albert Karagacha directed operators to keep their vehicles off the roads for a second consecutive day on Tuesday until further notice is issued.

The announcement is expected to deepen the transport crisis that left thousands of commuters stranded on Monday, with businesses and schools heavily affected in several parts of the country.

The strike started Monday to push the government to take action to address the rising fuel prices.

At least four people were killed on Monday in separate incidents in Kakamega, Kiambu and Nakuru.

Property were looted and others damaged in the chaos.