Public transport operators have officially called off the nationwide strike over rising fuel prices that had been set to resume on Monday, May 26, after reaching an agreement with the government to continue negotiations instead of proceeding with industrial action.
The announcement was made during a press briefing at Mombasa State House on Friday, May 22, following talks between sector representatives and President William Ruto over concerns affecting the transport industry.
Federation of Public Transport Sector chair Edwin Mukabana directed investors, drivers, and conductors to resume operations immediately.
“I am announcing to all our members, especially our investors, drivers and conductors, that following our deliberations with His Excellency, the strike we had suspended has now been fully called off. We expect this to take immediate effect, and everyone should return their vehicles to the road,” he said.
Kushian Muchiri, chair of the Association of Matatu Transport Owners (ATMO), speaks during a press briefing at Mombasa State House on May 22, 2026.
The development followed Ruto’s announcement of a further Ksh10 reduction in diesel prices for the June–July pricing cycle in a bid to ease pressure on fuel costs. Following the review, diesel in Nairobi will retail at Ksh222.86 per litre, kerosene at Ksh191.38, and super petrol at Ksh214.25, effective June 15.
Besides the reduction in fuel prices, transport operators also welcomed the President’s directives on long-standing industry concerns, including insurance issues and the graffiti ban.
Muchiri also apologised to Kenyans for the violence and destruction witnessed during the protests held on May 19 and 20.
“I would like to start by apologising to the country for the time we went on strike. We had directed that vehicles should be left at home, but unfortunately, goons infiltrated, political interests got involved, and as a result, people lost vehicles while schools and other institutions were vandalised,” he said.
During the nationwide protests, several vehicles were torched while schools and other structures were vandalised in different towns and along major highways.
A number of injuries and deaths were also reported, with some protesters allegedly shot or arrested as police moved in to clear barricaded roads and restore order.
Transport operators further revealed that they will continue engaging with Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir to address unresolved issues affecting the sector.
The decision to call off the strike is expected to restore normal public transport operations across the country, easing fears of disruptions to work, business, and other daily activities next week. #MatatuStrike