Update: 10:43 AM: A number of Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) operators downed their tools in protest over the high cost of fuel and the mandatory driver testing despite its suspension by Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
In some parts of the country such as Nairobi and Western Kenya, PSV operators removed their vehicles from the road with fears over the planned Azimio demonstrations.
Some of the drivers also demanded the abolishment of the driver's retest in totality.
The Matatu Owners Association, on Tuesday, July 11, clarified that their vehicles would continue operating after initially planning for a strike slated for Wednesday, July 12.
Speaking to the media, MOA boss Albert Karakacha maintained that they were in business to earn a living and had reconsidered their demonstrations after Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen suspended the mandatory retesting of drivers.
Karakacha also refuted claims that their planned strike was aligned with Azimio la Umoja's nationwide protests, emphasising that matatu operators acted on their own accord.
"We are business people, and we will not strike. We are business people, and cannot be involved in matters we do not know," Karakacha stated.
On the other hand, the Kenya Long Distance Truck Drivers and Allied Workers Union (KLDAWU), through its chairman Hassan Abdalla confirmed that it also directed drivers to return to the roads in line with Murkomen's directive.
The truck drivers indicated they would allow discussions between their officials and the ministry to address other grievances.
"We have been heard and we have decided to return to work because they have listened to our demands. The discussions will take place in the coming month," read the statement in part.
Murkomen suspended the mandatory retesting until September 1, 2023, to allow consultations between the ministry and the PSV operators following an uproar over the charges and tests.
Earlier, the British Embassy warned of major disruptions in the country given that the PSV strike coincided with Azimio La Umoja protests.
"Public transport strikes are planned for the same day and are expected to cause transport disruptions. In the past, demonstrations in Kenya have resulted in clashes between the police and demonstrators. Avoid protests and political gatherings.
"Protests can occur in different places, be alert to media coverage and if you see a large crowd move away from the area. Some workplaces and schools may be closed on these days," read the statement in part.
