The Matatu Welfare Association (MWA) has asked the government to extend the deadline for the implementation of the cashless payment system in public transport vehicles (PSV).
MWA chairman Dickson Mbugua said that the implementation should be extended by four months to make the transition smooth. Mbugua noted that the extension will allow operators adopt and get used to the system, which will ensure efficiency.
“We are asking the government to extend the cashless payment system rollout deadline. This will give us enough time to implement it,” he said.
The chairman indicated that majority of PSVs have not adopted the system ahead of the July 1 deadline.
He said that the multi-billion investment will be effective if they are given more time.
The government, through the National Transport and Safety Authority, has indicated that the deadline will not be extended.
NTSA chairman Lee Kinyanjui told journalists over the weekend that all PSVs are expected to comply with the directive. He warned that action will be taken against those who fail to heed the directive.
Kinyanjui said the regulations provide for Sh100,000 fines or a prison term not exceeding one year for non-compliance.