Thousands of commuters have been stranded today after some public transport operators kept off the roads to protest the new traffic rules being brought in under the new Traffic (Amendment) Act.

Many routes into Nairobi have been affected and some vehicles of operators that ignored the strike were attacked and damaged. Violence has been reported along the Ngong Road and Ongata Rongai.

Matatu Owners Association chairman Simon Kimutai disowned the strike. “Some of our vehicles in operation have been attacked by thugs but I have asked police to protect us. We are against the so called strike,” he said.

Another attack occurred near the Karen shopping centre but no one was injured.

NEW TRAFFIC AMMENDMENT ACT

Transport minister Amos Kimunya has gazetted the new law which will come into force on Saturday, December 1.

The law requires and drivers of PSVs to undergo physical and health fitness examination every three years.

The Traffic (Amendment) Act also criminalises drunk driving and brings in a stiffer penalty for those found guilty of the offence. Anyone convicted of a drink-driving offence will be fined Sh500, 000, face a 10-year jail term, or both.

Since January at least 2,800 people have died on Kenya’s roads.

Motorcycle riders and their passengers will also be required to wear helmets and jackets. The law also demands the riders have to possess driving licences and contravention of the law will see owners fined Sh10, 000, jailed for a year, or both.

Driving without a licence attracts a tougher penalty as offenders will be jailed for 10 years or fined Sh500, 000 or both.

LATEST UPDATE: 12.45pm Thursday 29th November.

• Matatus block road at Nakumatt Junction, Ngong Road
• Vehicles stoned by youths at Galleria Shopping Mall
• Word on the street is that the strike is set to escalate…