A standoff between public transport operators in Nyeri and the county government has entered its second day, causing major disruptions to commuters across the town’s busiest routes. Matatu operators from several saccos have withdrawn their vehicles from key stages, protesting what they describe as unfair enforcement operations and new directives issued by county transport officials. The paralysis has left hundreds of residents stranded during peak hours, with many forced to walk or pay higher fares from alternative, informal operators.
The disagreement stems from a recent crackdown by the county government targeting non-compliant vehicles, unauthorized pickups, and congestion around the main Nyeri bus park. County officials say the operation is meant to restore order, improve safety, and reduce what they term unregulated competition that has fueled traffic chaos. However, operators argue that the directives were implemented abruptly, without prior consultation, and impose heavy financial penalties that many struggling matatu owners cannot afford. Representatives from the affected saccos insist they are not opposed to regulation but want the county to review the fines, give them more time to comply, and involve them in policy decisions affecting the sector.
Attempts to convene a mediation meeting on Monday afternoon reportedly stalled, as each side maintained its hardline position. Commuters are now calling for a quick resolution, warning that the ongoing stalemate is beginning to affect livelihoods, business operations, and school transport. Local leaders have urged both parties to return to the negotiation table and agree on a transitional plan that allows services to resume while addressing compliance concerns. As the standoff stretches into its second day, residents remain hopeful that a compromise will be reached before the situation escalates further and disrupts transport across the wider Nyeri region.