The Kenya Motorists Association (KMA) on Monday, July 17, protested against the increased parking fees proposed by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja in the Nairobi County Finance Bill, 2023.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Chairman Peter Murima remarked that the increased parking fees were unwelcome especially considering they come at a time when Kenyans are grappling with increased taxation.
He further faulted Sakaja for not consulting the association when making key decisions affecting motorists in the capital warning that is not acceptable.
According to the proposed new charges, cars will be required to pay a daily fee of Ksh300 up from Ksh200.
Motorists have described the increased taxation as ill advised following the national government's move to increase the Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel to 16% from 8%.
“We did not have any public participation before the charges were increased,” Mrima complained.
He further told Kenyans.co.ke that the association had been writing letters to the county government on matters affecting motorists but did not receive any response from City Hall.
“They have even restricted us from accessing their offices. Our letters are just received and no action is taken,” he revealed while calling for public participation before the parking fees are revised.
The association further demanded that Sakaja holds a meeting with all stakeholders in the industry as this affected motorists and the country’s economy in general.
“He should understand that driving is not a luxury but a necessity. The excess fees are making it hard for people to conduct their businesses,” Mrima stated.
Breakdown of the proposed parking fees
Cars parked in non-automated areas will pay Ksh300 per day while tuk-tuks and motorcycles parked outside the Central Business District will pay Ksh1,000 per month.
Conversely, motorists will pay Ksh100 for the first hour and Ksh50 for every extra hour in automated areas.
Lorries weighing up to 5 tonnes will pay an annual fee of Ksh112,500, with those above the weight paying Ksh225,000 per annum.
The Finance Bill, 2023 further proposes Ksh675, 000 annual parking fees for non-Public Service Vehicles buses for on-street parking.
