Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has lashed out at the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) over its recent directive cautioning public service vehicles (PSVs) over the use of graffiti.
In a statement on Thursday, May 29, Cherargei argued that the directive threatens the livelihoods of many young Kenyans who rely on the matatu art industry.
"To ban matatu graffiti which is an identity; a matatu industry culture in Kenya, is retrogressive, backward, primitive and illegal because it undermines freedom of expression, thought, art and consciousness.
"This directive must be rescinded as there are young people in Kenya who depend on this graffiti business to eke out a living in scarce opportunities," he stated.
In a notice on Tuesday, May 27, NTSA issued a warning to all PSVs operators, demanding immediate compliance with the regulatory requirements.
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The authority expressed concern over what it described as widespread non-compliance among commuter PSVs.
"The Authority has observed widespread non-compliance with these regulatory provisions, especially among commuter Public Service Vehicles.
"A notable number of vehicles have been modified through the application of graffiti and other unauthorized artistic enhancements, resulting in the inability to clearly identify the name of the Sacco or Company under which the vehicle operates, its designated route, or the mandatory continuous yellow line that distinguishes licensed PSVs," the notice read.
NTSA noted that such modifications not only breach regulatory guidelines but also erode public trust in the transport system.
"Such contraventions violate the letter and spirit of the regulations and undermine public confidence in the PSV sector by creating ambiguity as to the licensed operator.
NTSA has ordered all PSV operators to immediately audit their fleets and ensure full adherence to the rules.
"Considering the foregoing, all licensed Public Transport Operators are hereby directed to conduct an immediate and comprehensive audit of their fleets to ensure full compliance with the requirements of the Regulations," the notice further read.
The authority concluded with a firm ultimatum, warning that failure to comply will trigger strict enforcement measures.
"The Authority hereby gives notice that all Public Service Vehicle operators are required to take immediate corrective action, failure to which regulatory measures will be instituted at individual motor vehicle owner and operator level, including but not limited to vehicle impoundment, suspension and revocation of the license," the notice concluded.
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