George Ruto’s well-known and often controversial matatu, Money Fest, has once again landed in the spotlight after being involved in a collision with a boda boda rider along Outering Road, just before the Mutindwa footbridge. The Public Service Vehicle (PSV), already notorious for past traffic offenses, was captured stationary in the middle of the road moments after the incident, with a crowd gathered nearby. A motorbike lay in front of the matatu as passengers disembarked and other vehicles maneuvered around the scene. The exact cause of the accident remains unclear.
Why Is ‘Money Fest’ So Controversial?
Since its debut in mid-2024 on the Ngong Road route, Money Fest has faced criticism and allegations of flouting traffic regulations. Early complaints included claims that the vehicle lacked Sacco affiliation, had not undergone National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) inspection, and engaged in unfair competition with smaller operators. Public pressure eventually led to an inspection before it was allowed back on the road.
Its notoriety deepened in January when it was filmed racing another matatu in Ongata Rongai, dangerously carrying two passengers on its roof. The NTSA impounded the vehicle, and driver Dominic “Kinara” Amaya was fined KSh 50,000 after pleading guilty to traffic offenses. The matatu later switched to the Embakasi route, but controversies have persisted.
Public Reactions to the Accident
Footage of the latest incident quickly spread online, sparking mixed opinions. Some blamed the boda boda rider, with Daniel Sila commenting, “The boda boda rider is in the wrong. They take loans to buy the motorcycle, and when they fail to pay, they crash into cars so they can be compensated.” Others questioned the calls to punish the matatu crew, with Seth Rollins asking, “Why do people want the matatu to be burned? What if the boda rider is in the wrong?” Meanwhile, Stephen Njeri, identifying himself as a boda boda rider, declared, “We are boda boda riders, and we do what is right without any questions, and nobody can do anything. We are the government.”
The incident has reignited debate over Money Fest’s place on Nairobi’s roads, highlighting ongoing tensions between matatu crews, boda boda operators, and the public.
By Risper Akinyi