Matatus to offer free ride to elderly, disabled on August 8
Matatu Owners Association chairman Simon Kimutai. He says the association will provide free transport for the elderly and the disabled on Election Day. FILE PHOTO | ROBERT NGUGI | NATION MEDIA GROUP
The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) will offer free transport to the elderly and the disabled on Election Day to ensure they participate in the polls.
Speaking to the Nation on Wednesday, MOA chairman Simon Kimutai said the transport services will be provided across the country.
“We will provide free transport for the elderly of 75 years and above and the disabled, who will be given first priority to be transported to and from the polling stations without pay,” said Mr Kimutai.
He said the association has also launched a nationwide peace campaign.
He said there is uncertainty in the country ahead of the August 8 elections and that their campaign is promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We have started peace campaigns by displaying peace posters to emphasise that we must have a peaceful election.
"Everybody must be given space to exercise their democratic rights by choosing a leader whom they want without intimidation,” said Mr Kimutai.
He said the association decided to launch the campaign because its officials had noticed movements of people to new locations ahead of the elections.
“There has been some people relocating because of past experiences. Some stages are crowded with people travelling upcountry. We cannot say why but maybe they are registered as voters upcountry,” he said.
He said MOA is vigilant and has strategies to ensure its vehicles are not used to cause chaos by transporting troublemakers.
