Matatu Driver Arrested for Allegedly Obstructing First Lady’s Motorcade
A matatu driver was arrested and charged with obstruction after allegedly blocking First Lady Rachel Ruto’s motorcade in Nairobi.
The driver, who was ferrying passengers to Kakamega, was apprehended along University Way at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21.
When questioned by the media, the driver, who has not been named, expressed surprise at his arrest and subsequent detainment at Kabete Police Station. He maintained his innocence and shared his experience with the press, shedding light on the events leading up to his arrest.
The driver said that he was stopped at a red light when the First Lady’s motorcade approached. He said that he waited for the motorcade to pass before proceeding, but that he was then arrested by police officers who accused him of obstructing the motorcade.
A passenger who was present during the incident corroborated the driver’s account. The passenger said that the driver waited for 15 minutes after the motorcade passed before proceeding, but that he was still arrested by police officers.
The passenger criticized the police’s handling of the situation, saying that the driver was clearly not obstructing the motorcade and that his arrest was unjustified.
The driver is due to appear in court on July 5.
The arrest of the matatu driver is a reminder of the challenges that matatu drivers face in Kenya. Matatu drivers are often harassed by police officers, and they are often the targets of arbitrary arrests.
The arrest of the matatu driver is also a reminder of the importance of due process. The driver was arrested and charged with obstruction, but he has not been convicted of any crime. He is entitled to the presumption of innocence, and he deserves a fair trial.
The case of the matatu driver is likely to be closely watched by matatu operators and human rights activists. The outcome of the case could have implications for the rights of matatu drivers in Kenya.