Matatu and taxi operators in Meru Town have lauded the reinforcement of the infamous Michuki Rules, saying they would bring back sanity in the transport sector.
The operators however, lamented over alleged unfair application of the rules accusing law enforcers of colluding with some personal vehicle owners allowing them to operate public transport without PSV licenses.
Speaking on Wednesday to the media after undergoing a sensitisation clinic conducted by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) within the various matatu stages in Meru Town, the dissatisfied operators called on the traffic officers to crack their whip on small vehicles offering matatu and taxi services without licenses.
“We celebrate CS Matiang’i for reintroducing the Michuki rules. However, we want police to tell us why there are so many small vehicles carrying passengers all over Meru town when those licensed to do so are being disturbed,” said Jared Mwiti, a driver of vehicles plying between Meru and Maua towns.
Mwiti claimed their business had been affected because of the high number of private vehicles allegedly owned by government employees operating as PSVs.
He stated that they have no issue with the compliance with the Michuki rules only that the same should apply to all vehicles and those without PSV licenses should be driven out of the public transport sector.
The NTSA Upper Eastern Regional Manager, Joseph Gichohi said they were waiting for directives from the head office on the compliance of small vehicles alleged to be non-compliant.
The clinic that started yesterday shall be conducted at the various matatu termini within Meru and Isiolo counties with NTSA targeting to reach all transport operators.
“This sensitisation aims at enlightening all vehicle owners on the Michuki rules and compliance as we move towards the festive season,” said the NTSA Boss.
Motor vehicle owners have till November 12 to comply with the rules that have been operational but their reinforcement had been relaxed.
By Richard Muhambe
