The Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya’s National Assembly has stepped in to address mounting concerns over alleged police harassment of pick-up truck operators working under the Nairobi-based Chapa Works network.
Chaired by Hon. GK George Kariuki, the committee hosted a dialogue session on Thursday morning with representatives of the transport group, offering a rare platform for operators to speak directly to lawmakers about their challenges.
Operators recounted distressing experiences, including arrests and courtroom appearances linked to what they described as their refusal to pay bribes. Some said police routinely target their operations, creating fear and uncertainty in the sector.
Committee members expressed concern over the reports, with Hon. Eng. John Kiragu faulting the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) for what he described as the unchecked delegation of enforcement authority to police officers, which he claimed had led to abuse.
Hon. Samuel Araba echoed the need for clearer distinctions in the roles of enforcement agencies, while Hon. TJ Kajwang challenged Chapa Works to broaden their advocacy beyond Nairobi.
“You’re not just speaking for the 300 in Nairobi, but thousands nationwide. Bring us nationwide data, and Parliament will listen,” Kajwang said.
Appearing before the committee were operators Mr. Stephen Mburu, Ms. Mary Ndung’u, Mr. John Wanjeru, Mr. Daniel Kamau, and Mr. James Macharia. The lawmakers instructed the Office of the Clerk to assist the group in drafting a formal petition.
Chairperson Kariuki assured the group of the committee’s support in pursuing justice and pushing for fairer treatment in the informal transport sector.
The session marked a growing parliamentary interest in safeguarding small-scale operators from systemic abuse while fostering policy inclusion.
