Following the recent pump price increase, ride-hailing drivers have proposed a minimum fare of Ksh350 for trips of up to three kilometres, threatening mass protests.
Organisation of Online Drivers (OOD) chairperson Justin Nyaga said the proposed rate would apply to the smallest vehicle category, comprising 650cc compact cars.
“The shortest trip shall be not less than Ksh350 for the smallest category, that is 650cc, and for a distance not exceeding 3 kilometres,” Nyaga said while listing the drivers’ demands.
The demand for higher fares comes as the drivers threaten to suspend their services if concerns over the rising cost of fuel are not addressed.
Matatus heading to Nairobi CBD during traffic along Ngara
Photo
Jalang'o
Drivers criticised the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) for implementing the increases without seeking public input, arguing that the decision places additional pressure on households, particularly those with low incomes.
EPRA’s October 14 review increased petrol prices by Ksh12.93 per litre, diesel by Ksh9.90 and kerosene by Ksh28.49.
In Nairobi, petrol now retails at Ksh226.96 per litre, while diesel costs Ksh227.76 and kerosene Ksh219.87.
The union is now calling on the regulator to reconsider the adjustments to help ease the rising cost of living.
Further, drivers decried that on top of high fuel expenses, commissions charged by ride-hailing platforms leave some drivers with little or no earnings.
They questioned why ride-hailing companies were allegedly failing to comply with presidential directives, calling for greater accountability in the sector.
“You find a driver has been on the road the whole day, but by evening, because of commissions and high prices, they are left with nothing in their pockets. Companies are refusing to follow the President’s orders, and we are wondering what authority they have in this country. Are they above the law?” said Frida Gatwiri, a ride-hailing driver.
In May, President William Ruto directed the Ministry of Transport and National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to fast-track minimum fare regulations for ride-hailing taxis amid rising fuel costs and longstanding disputes between drivers and platform companies.
Other transport operators are also seeking fare increases, with the Matatu Owners Association recommending a 10 per cent rise for its members.
Meanwhile, the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has also threatened peaceful demonstrations if the government fails to address concerns over fuel pricing, calling for an independent review of the latest adjustments and an audit of the Government-to-Government petroleum importation arrangement.
Fueling at a petrol station in Kenya.
Photo
Kenyans.co.ke