In retaliation for Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen's directive ordering drivers to retake the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) tests, long-distance drivers and matatu operators threatened to strike and paralyse the sector.
Through the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LODDCA), the operators, on Wednesday, June 21, issued a 21-day strike notice.
LODDCA urged NTSA and the Ministry of Transport to engage the drivers and other stakeholders in the decision-making process to guarantee positive changes in the sector and avert the looming mass action.
"The association has issued a 21-day strike notice, urging the withdrawal of the directive to avoid industrial action," LODDCA warned, insisting that it would proceed with its threat if its grievances were dismissed.
According to the association's CEO, Anthony Mutua, the directive was punitive, harboured selfish interests, and was meant to frustrate drivers.
He argued that the mandatory re-testing exercise conducted by NTSA would disadvantage the drivers who were set to be subjected to exorbitant charges.
Drivers were said to earn less and were unable to raise the mandatory Ksh1,050 fee NTSA demands before issuing the tests.
"The association calls for constructive dialogue between the Ministry of Transport, the NTSA, and stakeholders to address concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions that prioritise safety while supporting driver's well-being," LODDCA read malice in Murkomen's directive.
Murkomen's directive, it added, was also a catalyst for increasing unemployment rate and corruption in an already graft-stricken sector.
It suggested NTSA introduces free refresher courses for Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers as a continuous road safety training alternative instead of imposing expensive tests that would frustrate motorists.
Other solutions it proposed as an alternative to the tests were forming a task force to represent the drivers in negotiations with the Transport Ministry, self-regulation, and an audit of all Saccos and companies.
On June 19, NTSA issued guidelines to prepare the drivers for the mandatory retesting. Among them was simplifying the application process to provide transparency and accountability.
"A re-test application is lodged through the driver's account, which is accessed using the eCitizen login credentials," NTSA stated.
Drivers who fail the tests will also be required to take refresher courses at preferred driving schools before reapplying to retake the exams.
