Tension escalated in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Monday, February 2, 2026, as police moved in to dismantle roadblocks mounted by matatu operators protesting mob justice attacks on public service vehicles by boda boda operators.
Police officers were seen forcibly removing number plates from matatus and other PSVs that had been parked across major roads in the CBD, as authorities sought to restore traffic flow and bring the protests under control.
The protest forms part of a wider demonstration by matatu operators who accuse the government of failing to protect them from violent attacks, particularly incidents where boda boda riders vandalise or burn matatus following road accidents.
Matatus block roads
During the matatu strike, some operators went further by blocking major roads, including Moi Avenue in the Nairobi CBD and briefly along Waiyaki Way in Westlands, causing severe traffic congestion and slowing down the morning rush hour.
Outering Road had also been blocked as matatus parked across the road near Kariobangi.
Traffic along several key routes in the CBD was disrupted as stranded commuters were forced to walk long distances or seek alternative transport, including boda bodas and ride-hailing services.
Some businesses also reported delays as employees struggled to access the city centre.
Matatu strike suspension
The matatu strike kicked off despite the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) suspending it following stakeholder consultations.
In a notice on Sunday, February 1, 2026, the federation said it had decided after discussions between representatives of boda boda operators, Public Service Vehicles (PSV) operators, and security agencies.
“Following consultations between representatives of Boda Boda Operators, PSV Operators, and Security Agencies, it was agreed that the Matatu Strike scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, be suspended to give dialogue a chance,” the notice read.
FPTS said that further consultations will be held to address the issues that prompted the planned industrial action.
Officials emphasised that the goal is to reach a lasting and peaceful solution through structured engagement, with dialogue set to continue among key stakeholders.
