George Ruto’s Money Fest matatu is in the spotlight after being involved in a road accident. George Ruto’s Money Fest was in an accident. Money Fest is one of the most controversial Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) in recent memory, having hit the Nairobi roads in mid-2024. Its debut on the Ngong Road route sparked criticism, with some accusing George of competing unfairly with smaller operators. Why is Money Fest controversial? Allegations soon followed that the matatu flouted traffic rules, lacked a Sacco, and had not undergone an NTSA inspection. After public pressure, it was inspected and returned to service. Trouble resurfaced in January when Money Fest was filmed overtaking other vehicles in Ongata Rongai while racing another matatu, with two passengers dangerously seated 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 shifted routes to Embakasi, but its notoriety continues. Did Money Fest hit boda boda rider? A video circulating on social media shows that the PSV was involved in an accident with a boda boda operator, though the circumstances of the accident remain unclear. In one video, the stationary vehicle is seen in the middle of the road, with a small crowd gathered around it. A motorbike is visible in front of the vehicle after the collision. Passengers alight from the PSV as another vehicle maneuvers around it. The accident occurred along Outering Road, just before the Mutindwa footbridge.
Social media users had mixed views about the accident, with some blaming one party or the other for the incident. Here are some of the reactions: Daniel Sila: “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.” Dzaddy Long Strokes: “Where are the people who burn vehicles?” Kush Roots Man: “There is no big issue. This happens on the road.” Seth Rollins: “Why do people want the matatu to be burned? What if the boda rider is in the wrong?” Russel Harlan: “They will come for you in your single room with iron sheets in Mukuru Kwa Reuben.” Stephen Njeri: “We are boda boda riders, and we do what is right without any questions, and nobody can do anything. We are the government.”
By William Osoro
