Matatu owners assure normal operations ahead of June 25 protests anniversary

In a statement, MOA Chairperson Albert Karakacha expressed solidarity with families and loved ones affected by the protests, while calling for justice, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

"The Matatu Owners Association stands in solidarity with the families and loved ones affected by the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests. We believe that justice, accountability, and respect for the rule of law remain essential to national healing," Karakacha said.

He encouraged all matatu owners, drivers, crew and staff to remain calm, exercise restraint, and continue providing transport services responsibly.

"The public transport sector remains committed to serving Kenyans and facilitating the movement of people and goods accordingly. Matatu operations will continue as normal while respecting the constitutional rights of all citizens and public safety."

The association strongly condemned all forms of violence, vandalism, arson, looting and destruction of property.

"The safety and well-being of our passengers, transport workers, vehicles, business, and the public remain the foremost priority," Karakacha stated.

He called upon all stakeholders — including community leaders, civil society, businesses and government agents — to uphold peace, engage in constructive dialogue, respect the law, and work collectively towards solutions that strengthen justice, accountability and national unity.

"We are businessmen. Our work is to ferry passengers. We know very well that wherever there is even a holiday, we normally carry passengers. We are in business and we are just urging the public, wherever they are, there will be matatus on the road carrying passengers as usual," he added.