Matatu Operators Reject Diesel Price Cut as 'Mockery', Demand Urgent Fuel Subsidy

 

Award winning Super Metro Chairman Nelson Nduki who is also the ChairmanMass mobility operators association

The government’s recent reduction of diesel prices by Ksh 0.11 per litre has been met with outrage from players in the public transport sector, who have dismissed the move as an insult to struggling Kenyans.

Speaking on behalf of the industry, Mass Mobility Operators Association Chairman Nelson Mwangi Nduki condemned the minor price cut, saying it offers no meaningful relief to operators who are already burdened by months of sustained fuel hikes.

“This so-called relief is meaningless when every past increment has been as high as Ksh 6 or more per litre,” said Nduki. “It is a mockery to Kenyans who are already struggling to survive.”

He warned that the high cost of diesel — which powers most public service vehicles — is not only threatening the survival of the Matatu industry, but also driving up the cost of living for millions of Kenyans who depend on affordable transport.

“For months, we have been unable to increase fares because our passengers are already crushed by the high cost of living,” Nduki explained. “Instead, operators have been forced to shoulder these ever-rising fuel expenses, threatening the survival of the entire public transport sector.”

According to Nduki, the ripple effect of high diesel prices is being felt across the economy, as transportation costs directly influence the prices of food, goods, and essential services.

The Association is now calling on the government to urgently reinstate a fuel subsidy to cushion the industry and the general public.

“We demand the immediate introduction of a fuel subsidy to ease the burden on both the Matatu industry and millions of Kenyans who depend on affordable transport,” Nduki said. “Anything less is a betrayal of the people and proof that the government is out of touch with reality.”

The Matatu sector remains a vital part of Kenya’s transport system, ferrying millions of commuters daily. However, operators warn that without concrete government intervention, many vehicles could be grounded, leaving passengers stranded and putting livelihoods at risk.