Drivers have expressed profound concern over the recent increase in road accidents citing harsh work conditions within the transport sector.
Under the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LODDCA), the drivers claimed that despite numerous attempts to raise their grievances, stakeholders were yet to address issues crucial to road safety.
"We stress the importance of effective self-regulation mechanisms within the transport sector. It is essential for all stakeholders to actively participate in ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations," they stated.
The recent tragic accident along the Nakuru-Eldoret highway, which resulted in the loss of 15 lives, prompted them to push the government to act.
The drivers lamented that the driver of the bus that caused the accident had previously complained about its substandard tyres only to be assumed by his employer.
He was further allegedly forced to operate the faulty bus which claimed 15 road users as a consequence.
"Today, the same driver finds himself in court, bearing the weight of responsibility for a situation that could have been prevented with proactive measures from the relevant authorities," the drivers poured their outcry.
The driver who was arraigned on January 11, appeared before Principal Magistrate Daisy Mose and was charged with 15 counts of causing death.
He denied all the counts and was released on a bond of Ksh1 million or a surety of the same amount.
Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LODDCA) hence demanded the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to address their grievances to prevent future tragedies.
"We call for a comprehensive review of safety standards, stringent enforcement of regulations, and the establishment of a collaborative multi-agency approach to ensure the safety of all road users," the drivers urged.
They also called upon other stakeholders to restore public trust in the transport sector.
