No transport shutdown on Thursday, matatu owners assure Kenyans ahead of June 25 protests
By Mustafa Juma, June 24, 2026The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has assured Kenyans that public transport services will operate normally on Thursday, June 25, 2026, despite concerns over possible disruptions during planned commemorations marking the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024, Gen Z protests.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, MOA President Albert Karakacha said the association had directed matatu owners, drivers, conductors, and transport workers to remain calm and continue providing services responsibly while prioritising the safety of passengers and staff.
“While we are aware of concerns regarding possible disruptions, we encourage all matatu owners, drivers, crew, and staff to remain calm, exercise restraint, and continue providing transport services responsibly and professionally,” Karakacha said in the statement.
The assurance comes amid heightened anticipation ahead of nationwide activities planned to commemorate young Kenyans who lost their lives during the anti-Finance Bill protests of June 2024, which culminated in the storming of Parliament and left dozens dead. The anniversary has since become a symbolic date for many young Kenyans calling for justice, accountability, and governance reforms.
Concerns over disruptions
In recent weeks, activists, families of victims, opposition politicians, and civil society groups have called for peaceful memorial marches and vigils across the country.
Some leaders have urged Kenyans to participate in commemorative activities, including processions to Parliament Buildings and the laying of flowers in honour of those who died during the demonstrations.
The planned commemorations have sparked debate over whether businesses, schools, and transport services should suspend operations for the day.
However, the government has maintained that June 25 remains a normal working day. Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura recently clarified that the date is not a public holiday and urged citizens to continue with their daily activities while exercising their constitutional rights peacefully.
Transport sector rejects violence
While expressing solidarity with families affected by the events of June 2024, MOA emphasised that it does not support violence or destruction of property.
The association strongly condemned vandalism, arson, looting, and any actions that could endanger passengers, transport workers, businesses, or members of the public.
“The safety and wellbeing of passengers, transport workers, vehicles, businesses, and the public remain our foremost priority,” the statement said.
MOA further called on citizens, community leaders, civil society organisations, businesses, and government agencies to uphold peace, engage in constructive dialogue, and work collectively toward national unity.
Security agencies prepare
Security agencies have also announced heightened preparations ahead of Thursday’s commemorations.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has assured Kenyans that adequate security measures have been put in place to protect both peaceful demonstrators and members of the public.
At the same time, police have warned that any acts of violence or disruption of public order will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
President William Ruto has similarly urged Kenyans to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly, warning against actions that could result in destruction of property or disruption of economic activities.
Meanwhile, several foreign missions, including the United States Embassy in Nairobi, have issued advisories warning of potential traffic disruptions and urging heightened vigilance in areas where demonstrations are expected.
Thursday’s events will mark two years since the Gen Z-led demonstrations that transformed Kenya’s political landscape and elevated demands for accountability, transparency, and youth inclusion in governance.