The wreckage of the 14-seater matatu that was involved in an accident at Ngoliba area along the Thika- Garissa highway on December 17, 2017. [Photo/nation.co.ke]
The frequency of grisly road accidents during this festive season has resulted to blame game between Matatu Welfare Association (MWA) and National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
According to Dickson Mbugua, the MWA chairman, the blame falls on NTSA which he said it had fallen short of its mandate.
"NTSA efforts towards public education and awareness should start at the grassroots level, not urban areas," he said.
Speaking to Sunday Nation, Mbugua claimed the agency's chase cars are sometimes the cause of multiple accidents on roads.
"Even some of NTSA board members lack the experience required to make informed decisions on road safety," he added.
But NTSA Director General Francis Meja absolved the agency for blame, pointing an accusing finger to motorists.
"We have been very proactive in our work which we believe has seen positive results," he told Sunday Nation.
He added: "NTSA has increased its presence in most roads which we believe will go a long way in helping us improve our efficiency."
Meja attributed the recent spate of road accidents to human error resulting from drunk driving, fatigue, speeding and at times navigation on unfamiliar routes, especially by public service vehicles.
"Drivers should henceforth be more cautious on roads. But, more importantly, we would also like to appeal to all road users to be careful and remain vigilant, especially passengers, because they are ones in charge," the Director General added.