Matatu Operators Dismiss Fuel Price Cut as ‘Mockery,’ Demand Subsidy
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The Matatu industry has rejected the government’s recent KSh 0.11 per litre reduction in diesel prices, terming it meaningless and a mockery to struggling Kenyans.
Industry leaders argue that the marginal cut offers no relief compared to past increases, which have often been as high as KSh 6 or more per litre. They warn that the escalating cost of diesel—the backbone of public transport—continues to push up food, goods, and essential service prices, worsening the cost of living.
“For months, operators have been unable to raise fares because passengers are already overstretched,” a statement from the industry noted. “Instead, we are forced to absorb the rising costs, threatening the survival of the entire public transport sector.”
Matatu operators are now demanding the urgent reintroduction of a fuel subsidy, insisting it is the only measure that can protect both the transport sector and millions of Kenyans who rely on affordable commuting.
They further accuse the government of being out of touch with the daily struggles of ordinary citizens, saying the symbolic fuel price cut does little to ease the burden.
“The people deserve real solutions, not token gestures,” the statement added, underscoring fears that without intervention, the industry may face a collapse that would cripple national mobility.
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