Thousands of travellers scrambled for free transportation offered by Murang’a matatu operators and the county government on Wednesday.
They reported to the 13 matatu stages in Nairobi by 6am as operators facilitate movement for tomorrow’s repeat presidential election.
Many were elated, saying they had anticipated a hike in fares as with other elections.
“I live in Shauri Moyo estate but I vote at Kiombi Primary School in Kiharu constituency where my family lives,” said Mercy Wanjiru, a traveller.
The fruit vendor said she had not raised enough money to travel to Murang’a to vote.
Governor Mwangi Wa Iria on Tuesday announced that the county government would offer free transport for all disadvantaged people living in Nairobi but who are registered as voters in Murang’a.
Travellers are required to produce identity cards to confirm they are Murang’a residents.
“We are doing all this to ensure each one of our residents casts their vote,” Wa Iria said.
Some 400 matatus will ferry people from Nairobi to Murang’a until noon on Thursday.
Wa Iria said the plans were made in partnership with Senator Irungu Kang’ata and woman representative Sabina Chege.
“I also thank matatu saccos for partnering with us because they would have made a lot of money with hiked fares.”
The Governor said similar arrangements have been made to get people from Mombasa to Murang’a.
“No one from Murang’a has an excuse not to vote,” he said.
