Matatu owners in Kisumu County have vehemently opposed the recent hike in parking fees, accusing the county government of engaging in what they term “legalized robbery.” The operators have rejected the move to double parking charges in sub-counties and raise fees by 50% within the city, citing corruption and lack of public participation.
The Matatu Owners Association, led by General Secretary James Ochieng Omwa, criticized the county’s decision to abandon monthly sticker payments in favor of a daily per-entry charge. Omwa argued that this system is prone to corruption, alleging that significant amounts of money collected never make it to county coffers.
“Parking fees for 14-seater matatus have been raised from Ksh 100 to Ksh 150, while buses now pay Ksh 500, up from Ksh 400. This was done without any public consultation, and there is no visible impact from the revenue collected. The funds are lining individuals’ pockets,” Omwa stated.
He further noted that parking fees are being charged in areas without proper bus park facilities, such as Maseno, Holo, Ahero, Katito, and Awasi, a practice he described as exploitative. Omwa urged matatu operators to resist any additional charges beyond Ksh 100 for city parking and Ksh 50 for sub-counties, warning of potential mass protests if the county government fails to address their concerns.
The association has called on the Kisumu County government to emulate neighboring counties by reinstating the monthly sticker payment system, previously set at Ksh 3,400 for matatus and Ksh 5,000 for buses.
Shem Ochuodho, chairman of Kisumu Bus Park, echoed the concerns, emphasizing that the revenue increase was not part of the county’s budget and is riddled with “holes and loopholes” facilitating corruption. He urged the county to improve its management systems to curb the alleged misappropriation of funds.
Charles Obuya, chairman of the Kisumu County Matatu Owners Association, condemned the fee hike as illegal, noting that stakeholders were not consulted.
“Proper public participation should have been conducted. Without it, this increment cannot stand,” he said.
The matatu operators have vowed to continue rejecting the new parking fees until their grievances are addressed and have threatened further demonstrations to compel action.
