This archive report was first published on 13 January 2020.
Thousands Stranded as Kasarani Matatu Operators Demonstrate ¶
On January 13, 2020, thousands of Nairobi commuters were left stranded after Kasarani-CBD matatu operators demonstrated over poor roads in the area.
The operators barricaded the road with burning tyres, and personal vehicles were not allowed to use the road, forcing commuters to brave the heavy rains as they walked to Roysambu to seek alternative means to reach Nairobi CBD.
According to social media reports, the Mwiki-Kasarani route is in poor condition, with some parts of the road turning into ponds due to flooding and poor drainage issues.
Locals have expressed frustration over the poor state of the road, with some parts having large potholes and uneven surfaces. Despite serving thousands of Nairobi taxpayers, the road has been neglected, leading to increased fares for public transport vehicles.
Area MP Mercy Gakuya has been criticized for her inaction since her election in 2017. Locals claim that the last time they saw her was during her last campaign rally before the elections.
"We elect clowns and when they fail miserably in service delivery, we start demos! It's sad, hata Mungu hawezi tusaidia" — Mykhey MeeCH (@iamMykheyMutua) January 13, 2020
