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14-seater matatu phase out is retrogressive, says Muite

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Published on Tuesday, 31 January 2012 11:50

Safina leader Paul Muite has dismissed government policy tophase out the 14-seater matatus. Muite said the proposal is retrogressive adding that it will lead to mass joblosses. Muite said the policy was ill advised as it was negating government’spromise to create jobs for the youth. Speaking as Legal Adviser for the Matatu Drivers andConductors Organization, he petitioned the government to rescind itspolicy to phase out 14-seater matatus from the transport sector. He called on thegovernment to seek other alternatives to decongeste Kenyanroads rather than take options that render the youth jobless.

Addressing public meeting in Kisii and Keroka townsover the weekend, Muite said that the policy is not a solution to itself but counterproductiveto creation of jobs. “Most youths are in the matatu industry hence we need toimplement this policy with a sober mind,” he said. Muite said that Abagusii were major investors in the Matatu sector andthis policy will end up destabilizing both the social and economic empowermentof the area.

He accused some individuals of wanting to enrich themselves at theexpense of the poor Kenyans. MADCO secretary general Tom Bichage said the policy is a backward towards unityand peace establishment in Kenya. He said that most youths earn their incomethrough matatu operation and which is also a key pillar in Kenyan economy. “Thisis a recipe for unemployment and insecurity within our society,” Bichagecharged.