Matatu Owners Break Silence Ahead of June 25 Protests as Kenyans Warned of Major Disruptions
Matatu Owners Confirm Normal Operations on June 25 Despite Planned Gen Z Anniversary Marches
The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has moved to calm growing public anxiety ahead of the planned June 25 commemorative protests, assuring Kenyans that public transport services will continue operating normally across the country despite fears of widespread disruption.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association dismissed speculation that matatu operators would suspend services or stage a shutdown in response to the demonstrations marking the second anniversary of the historic Gen Z protests of June 2024.
MOA Chairman Albert Karakacha said the country’s public transport sector remains fully operational and that commuters should expect normal services on all routes.
“We wish to assure members of the public that matatu services will continue as usual on June 25. There is no planned strike or suspension of operations within the industry,” Karakacha said.
His remarks come amid heightened tension ahead of the anniversary demonstrations, which are expected to draw thousands of Kenyans demanding accountability over the deaths and injuries recorded during the anti-Finance Bill protests of June 2024.
While confirming normal transport operations, the association expressed solidarity with families who lost loved ones during the demonstrations that shook the nation two years ago.
Karakacha noted that Kenyans have a constitutional right to peacefully commemorate the day and seek justice for victims, but stressed the importance of maintaining national unity and protecting livelihoods.
“The right to peaceful assembly and remembrance must be respected. At the same time, the country must remain united as we pursue justice, accountability, and economic stability,” he added.
The assurance from matatu operators comes as businesses, schools, and employers continue to assess the potential impact of Wednesday’s demonstrations on normal economic activity.
Security agencies have intensified preparations in several parts of the country amid concerns that criminal groups could infiltrate otherwise peaceful protests and trigger unrest.
On Tuesday, newly appointed General Service Unit (GSU) Commandant Johana Kiplangat Tonui convened a high-level briefing with commanders, directing officers to remain vigilant and prepared to maintain law and order.
Tonui instructed security personnel to uphold professionalism, operate within constitutional limits, and prioritise the protection of lives and property throughout the demonstrations.
The security briefing followed remarks by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who urged police officers to exercise restraint and use only the minimum force necessary when managing crowds.
Murkomen disclosed that he had directed Inspector General Douglas Kanja to remind officers of constitutional guidelines governing the use of force, emphasizing the need to prevent unnecessary injuries or loss of life.
Meanwhile, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura reiterated that June 25 remains an ordinary working day and not a public holiday.
He urged Kenyans to continue with their daily economic activities while respecting the rights of those participating in peaceful commemorative events.
As the country prepares for a potentially significant day in Kenya’s recent political history, attention will remain focused on whether the demonstrations proceed peacefully and how authorities respond to the growing calls for accountability from a new generation of activists.
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