Matatu Operators in Kenya Threaten Nationwide Strike Over Insurance and Auctioneer Disputes

Matatu Movement is preparing for a nationwide strike on Tuesday to address mounting grievances against insurance companies and auctioneers. The operators claim rising operational costs and frequent vehicle auctions due to defaults are driving their businesses to the brink.

According to the group, the closure of insurance companies has forced matatu owners to purchase new policies, exacerbating financial strain. They allege a troubling pattern of collusion between insurance firms and auctioneers, leading to severe undervaluation of insurance claims and hasty auctions of vehicles.

“We will not tolerate this exploitation any longer,” said a spokesperson for the movement. “If an insurance claim is worth Ksh3 million, receiving only Ksh250,000 is unacceptable and leads directly to auctions.”

The operators also criticized the License Board of Auctioneers, accusing it of failing to protect them from aggressive auction practices and lacking transparency in its operations. The strike aims to draw attention to these issues and demand urgent reforms.