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The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has taken action against two matatus branded "Moneyfest," known for plying the Nairobi-Rongai route. 

The vehicles were impounded following public outcry over reckless driving incidents captured in widely shared videos.

One video showed passengers dangerously perched atop the matatus as they navigated the busy road. 

Another clip depicted one of the matatus, overloaded with passengers, narrowly avoiding a crash with a Mercedes Benz while attempting to overlap in heavy traffic. 

These incidents highlighted serious traffic violations, sparking widespread concern among Kenyans about public safety.

The viral videos, shared on January 7, 2025, triggered frustration and calls for accountability. 

NTSA confirmed on January 9 that the vehicles had been impounded and taken to the police for further action. 

Responding to an online inquiry, the agency stated, “Thank you for alerting us. The vehicles are now under police custody for processing.”

The Moneyfest matatus have been linked to George Ruto, son of President William Ruto. 

This connection has raised questions about whether the vehicles enjoy protection from strict enforcement. 

Residents of Rongai have long expressed concerns about the impunity displayed by some matatus, with one individual noting, “These vehicles seem to operate above the law. Even traffic officers avoid dealing with them.”

Since entering the Nairobi public transport market, the Moneyfest matatus have faced repeated allegations of misconduct. 

Complaints include skipping stage lines, lacking proper Sacco branding, and stopping arbitrarily to pick or drop passengers.

NTSA has been cracking down on rogue drivers to promote road safety. 

Recently, a driver caught on video swerving dangerously had his license revoked for a year and was fined KSh 120,000. 

The vehicle owner also faced a KSh 20,000 fine, demonstrating NTSA’s commitment to enforcing regulations.

The impounding of the Moneyfest matatus marks a significant move by NTSA to restore order on Kenyan roads. 

The case has become a litmus test for ensuring equal treatment under the law, regardless of one’s influence or connections. 

Many Kenyans are eager to see if this enforcement will set a precedent for addressing impunity in the public transport sector.