BY ALLAN OTIENO
The social distancing guideline issued in the fight against the spread of Coronavirus in matatus and other Public Service Vehicles seems to be something of the past.
A spot check done on several matatus by Ghetto Radio, shows motorists now violating the guidelines and are currently carrying full capacity.
Affected saccos include Climax sacco, Eldoret Express among other saccos plying Nairobi -western routes.
In Nairobi almost all saccos are carrying full capacity, a habit that mainly happens past 6pm onwards.
In an interview with Ghetto Radio News Matatu Owners Association Chairman Simon Kimutai however, blamed the traffic police officers for colluding with drivers and picking bribes to allow errant matatu operators to carry full capacity.
‘‘It’s true that is happening but the perpetrators are police officers because they collect bribes and allow some of our members to engage in that illegal business. We want equal grounds, let the government abolish this social distancing guideline because it’s not working,’’ Kimutai said.
Meanwhile the passengers have also raised concerns over the matter saying PSV operators are fleecing them with hiked fares.
‘‘They charge double fares at stages but along the way they pick passengers in full glare of traffic police disregarding social distancing,’’ a passenger added.
