A matatu reportedly owned by George Ruto, son of President William Ruto, has been thrust into the spotlight after a viral video exposed it engaging in dangerously reckless driving. The matatu, branded “Money Fest,” was captured weaving through traffic, overtaking on the wrong side, and carrying passengers precariously clinging to the windows and rooftop—all while traffic officers stood by, seemingly indifferent.
The incident occurred along the busy Magadi–Rongai road and quickly triggered widespread public outrage, prompting action from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and local police. In response, the NTSA impounded the “Money Fest” matatu (registration KDQ 111T), along with its equally notorious companion “Ambush” (registration KDG 195K). Both vehicles were seized for violating multiple traffic regulations and are now being held as investigations proceed.
The drivers of the two matatus were arraigned at the Kibera Law Courts. John Mwangi (Ambush) and Dominic Amaya (Money Fest) were fined KSh 50,000 each or handed a six-month jail term for operating unroadworthy vehicles. Leonard Kituu, another “Money Fest” driver, is facing five charges including obstruction, dangerous driving, ignoring police orders, and operating without the required PSV license and uniform. He denied all charges and was released on bail pending further hearings.
The incident has provoked sharp criticism from the public, who view it as a clear example of how political privilege undermines the rule of law. Activist Willie Oeba commented, “Kama Kenya kuna law, then hii Money Fest ya Mtoto wa Kasongo iko above the law!” (If there are laws in Kenya, then this ‘Money Fest’ matatu owned by the president’s son is above them).
On social media, outrage swelled, with users accusing law enforcement of selective application of justice. Many pointed out that the matatu’s behavior would have likely gone unpunished had it not been exposed online. One user lamented, “This is enough evidence that William Ruto has failed both as President and as a parent.”
The controversy also reignited concerns about road safety and the matatu industry’s long-standing issues, including corruption, lack of regulation, and frequent traffic violations. Kenyans called for stricter enforcement and accountability, regardless of the owner’s social or political status.
While NTSA’s swift response has been praised, many are watching to see if the legal proceedings will set a precedent or quietly fade away like similar past incidents involving the powerful. For now, “Money Fest” has become a symbol of a larger national conversation—one that questions whether Kenya’s laws truly apply to all, or just to the less privileged.
As public pressure mounts, the matatu saga may prove to be more than a traffic violation. It could be a tipping point in the fight against impunity on Kenyan roads.
