The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
The Truckers Association of Kenya has threatened to paralyse transport operations across the country starting Monday if the government fails to lower fuel prices.
Association Secretary General Dennis Kilia said truck drivers and transporters are frustrated by the latest fuel price hike and warned that members are prepared to stop operations completely.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
“We are unhappy with the increase in fuel prices,” Kilia said, adding that the association would direct all members to park their trucks should the government fail to intervene before Monday.
He warned that no trucks would be allowed on Kenyan roads, saying the planned action would amount to a nationwide shutdown.
According to Kilia, the soaring fuel prices are affecting both transporters and ordinary Kenyans already struggling with the high cost of living.
Speaking on behalf of the association, he said TAK represents more than 20,000 members operating approximately 40,000 trucks countrywide.
Kilia stated that transporters from regions including Mombasa, Busia, Mandera and Isebania would join the strike until the government addresses their concerns.
He emphasized that the transport sector plays a vital role in the economy and urged authorities to urgently respond to the grievances raised by operators.
Kilia also rejected claims that the fuel price increase was entirely caused by the Middle East crisis, arguing that the government should find alternative measures to shield Kenyans from the effects of global conflicts.
The warning by truckers comes just hours after matatu operators also announced a nationwide strike over the latest fuel review.
Led by chairman Albert Karakacha, the Matatu Owners Association said operators can no longer cope with the rising operational expenses.
Karakacha warned that public service vehicles would not operate on Monday and claimed roads would remain blocked until the government responds to their demands.
The association also instructed public transport operators to immediately increase fares by 50 percent in response to the high fuel costs.
