The Association of Matatu Operators (AMO) and Kenya Motorists Association (KMA) on Wednesday, June 28, responded to Azimio Leader Raila Odinga’s call asking matatus to carry excess passengers.
Speaking exclusively to Kenyans.co.ke, the two organisations noted that they did not fully agree with Raila’s proposed plan to deny President William Ruto fuel tax.
KMA agreed with Raila’s call encouraging Kenyans to walk to work, cycle or carpool where necessary to save on fuel.
Branden Marshall, an official at AMO, however, noted that the former Prime Minister’s call to carry excess passengers was ill-informed.
“Azimio could mean good but ultimately it is breaking the law. We have insured our vehicles and in case of any accident when carrying excess passengers, there will be no compensation,” Marshall explained.
The Association of Matatu Operators official further poked holes into Raila’s proposal noting that carrying excess passengers was a criminal offence and owners would incur fines leading to losses.
Marshall explained that if Raila wanted to help the matatu sector, he should agitate for lowering insurance premiums and taxes levied on vehicle spare parts.
His sentiments were supported by Peter Murima, KMA Chairman, who noted, “Agitating for carrying excess passengers is retrogressive. We cannot support that as there is a need to carry passengers decently and safely.”
KMA noted that the other measures were a welcome idea because they were helping motorists cope with the high cost of living.
“Carpooling, cycling and walking to work are healthy options. We urge motorists to limit driving to essential duties,” Murima stated.
With passengers already opting to walk to work and an increase in fuel prices, Marshall noted that a spike in fare prices was inevitable.
Marshall noted that matatu operators had shown restraint and not hiked fares despite ever-increasing fuel prices and the cost of spare parts.
“Going forward, we could be forced to raise fares, especially during peak hours so as to be sustainable,” he stated.
“I appeal to matatu owners to attend the current fares by doubling the carrying capacity as part of the civil disobedience,” Raila urged on Tuesday, June 27.
