Fresh details have emerged regarding the abrupt suspension of the matatu operators’ strike over the high cost of fuel, with allegations now surfacing that senior sector leaders were bribed to call off the demonstrations.
According to a claim made by blogger Cyprian Nyakundi on X, several matatu sector leaders were quietly paid large sums of money in a deal facilitated through Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
“Matatu sector leaders were each given KSh 500,000 in a quiet deal reportedly facilitated through Governor Sakaja,” Nyakundi alleged in the post that has since sparked heated reactions online.
The outspoken blogger further claimed that approximately 30 leaders were involved in the arrangement, bringing the alleged total payout to nearly KSh 15 million.
Nyakundi also alleged that flight tickets had already been booked for the leaders to travel to Mombasa for a meeting with President William Ruto slated for next week, raising questions over possible behind-the-scenes negotiations that may have influenced the sudden change of position by the transport operators.
The claims come just days after matatu operators threatened to paralyse transport services across the country over soaring fuel prices and what they described as unbearable operational costs.
The strike had caused anxiety among commuters, with fears of widespread disruption in Nairobi and other major towns.
However, the planned industrial action was unexpectedly suspended following meetings between sector representatives and government officials.
At the time, some leaders within the matatu industry said the government had agreed to hold further talks on fuel prices, taxes, and other concerns affecting the public transport sector.
The latest allegations by Nyakundi have now cast doubt on the real reasons behind the suspension of the protests.
