Matatu operators split over strike
Plans by matatu operators to call for a nationwide strike in protest over high fuel prices have split organisations representing the sector.
Matatu Welfare Association (MWA) chairman Dickson Mbugua said on Sunday his organisation supported demands by the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) for a 30 per cent reduction in the cost of fuel. (READ: Fuel prices may fall next week, says ministry)
Mr Mbugua said some people interested in political office were trying to raise funds for their campaigns in the 2012 General Election from the matatu sector.
“They should not look for money from this sector. The public will suffer while they laugh all the way to the bank,” he said.
Addressing journalists at a Nairobi hotel, Mr Mbugua said: “Increasing bus fares for the common mwananchi is not the solution as some leaders in the public service vehicle business would want us to believe.”
The organisation is demanding that the price of a litre of petrol be slashed from Sh124.10 to Sh86.90, diesel from Sh114.10 to Sh79.90 and that of kerosene be reduced from Sh94.85 to Sh66.40.
However, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has distanced itself from the strike, set for December 19. (READ: Matatus to strike over fuel costs)
Its chairman, Mr Simon Kimutai, said matatu operators make their money during the festive season and going on strike would hurt their pockets.
Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli threw his weight behind the MWA and accused Mr Kimutai of ignoring the plight of passengers.
Mr Atwoli also criticised Mr Kimutai’s suggestion that matatu operators increase prices during the festive season.
Mr Mbugua said MWA would talk to the government and other stakeholders in the transport sector to try and find a solution.
“Vehicle owners are incurring huge losses, with some struggling to repay loans they took out to buy the vehicles,” Mr Mbugua said.
MWA secretary general Sammy Gitau urged the government to quickly find ways of reducing fuel prices “so that wananchi can enjoy their Christmas.”
Energy Permanent Secretary Patrick Nyoike has announced that fuel prices are set to go down by between Sh3 and Sh5 per litre this week.
