The demonstration, initially organized to air grievances outside the Malindi municipal offices, took a violent turn, disrupting traffic and daily activities for hours.
According to witnesses, the attackers, armed with sticks and blunt objects, targeted the striking matatu operators and vandalized their vehicles, shattering windows and windscreens.
Videos from the scene show the attackers engaging in physical altercations, creating a tense atmosphere in the usually bustling coastal town.
The matatu operators accused the attackers of being hired goons, allegedly acting under the influence of local politicians.
"The people attacking us are familiar to us. They’ve come to beat us and destroy our vehicles. This is unacceptable," lamented one of the operators.
Authorities claim the protests may have been politically motivated rather than addressing the operators’ concerns.
Malindi Sub-County Administrator Dadu Chome argued that the demonstrations were connected to attempts to reinstate Silas Ngundo, the former manager of the municipality, rather than addressing legitimate transport sector grievances.
“It’s evident this was about political incitement. The chairman of the Malindi Matatu Owners Association has admitted the protests were unrelated to the association’s issues,” Chome stated.
Ngundo, who was recently handed a lifeline by the Labour and Employment Court, has been embroiled in a protracted legal battle over his dismissal.
Despite the court ruling in his favor, his reinstatement can only occur with approval from Kilifi County Governor.
Further complicating matters, some local leaders have accused politician Hafswa Homeni of inciting the matatu operators to push for Ngundo’s return.
These allegations have fueled calls for political tolerance and restraint to prevent further unrest.
Malindi Sub-County Police Commander Jos Mudavadi confirmed that investigations into the violence and its potential political links are underway.
Meanwhile, community leaders are urging all parties to resolve their differences peacefully.
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