Matatu Owners Threaten Nationwide Shutdown from February 2 Over Boda Boda ‘Lawlessness’

 The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has issued a stern warning to the national government, threatening to suspend public transport operations across Kenya from Monday, February 2, 2026 if authorities fail to rein in what the group calls escalating lawlessness by boda boda riders. 

Addressing journalists on Wednesday, January 28, MOA President Albert Karakacha expressed deep frustration at what he described as persistent attacks on matatus and other vehicles by rogue boda boda riders and a lack of meaningful government response. 

“We have written to the Minister for Transport, but nothing is happening. From Monday, we will withdraw all vehicles from the roads until the government listens to us,” Karakacha said, emphasising that operators no longer feel protected by the state despite repeated appeals to law enforcement and transport authorities. 

Karakacha told reporters that matatu owners have repeatedly approached security agencies and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to address rising incidents of violence, including the torching and vandalism of vehicles following accidents or disputes with boda boda riders. However, he claimed no arrests have been made in connection with the attacks. 

The association argues that these incidents not only endanger public service vehicles and drivers but also threaten commuters and the broader economy that depends on reliable transport. Kalakacha urged the government, particularly President William Ruto, to act swiftly, warning that the sector’s patience is wearing thin. 

In addition to the threat of withdrawing services, some matatu operator representatives have hinted at the potential for more disruptive actions — such as blocking major roads and highways — should the government continue to be unresponsive. 

The planned action — which could immobilise one of the country’s key transport sectors — comes amid growing concern over public safety on Kenyan roads and ongoing tensions between different transport stakeholders. Authorities have yet to issue an official response to the MOA’s ultimatum.