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Drama erupted in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Thursday as matatu operators blocked the main roads in protest of hawkers occupying their parking space.
At least four vehicles from different saccos were parked at the main roads along Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Accra Road and Ronald Ngala.
Drivers and conductors then opted to football on the roads paralyzing transport, with pedestrians having difficulties in navigating the CBD.
Whistling and shouting were heard in the streets, with some of the operators chanting “hakuna kubembelezana leo hapa (we won't take matters lightly today)”.
Addressing the media, National CEO Federation of Public Transport Sector Kushian Muchiri asked the national and county government to ensure that the transport sector is respected.
He threatened a major strike in the sector if the issues facing them were not addressed.
Lucky Baba Dogo Traveller director Simon Mburu said another business had occupied their spaces, inconveniencing them.
“Ndio maana tumesema biashara town imesimama (That is why we have decided to halt all businesses in town),” he said.
Mburu said traders occupying their space had a letter directing them to, but their sacco was left out as no communication was made on the changes.
He said they were co-existing when hawkers would open their businesses at 4pm, criticizing the changes made.
The chaos drew police presence.
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Heavy police presence following the protests held by matatu operators who have blocked main roads in Nairobi's CBD in protest of hawkers occupying their parking space, on January 30, 2025/ ENOS TECHE
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