Woman's Heated Exchange With Matatu Preacher Divides Kenyans: "Nunua Gari"

• A woman was in a matatu when a pastor boarded it and started preaching, to her chagrin
• The annoyed young woman confronted the preacher, accusing him of interfering with her peaceful commute
• The video divided social media users, with some urging her to buy her vehicle and stop using public means

A video of a woman's heated exchange with a preacher in a matatu has divided opinion on social media.

Why did woman confront matatu preacher?

Alivina Gachugu took on the preacher, accusing him of disrupting and interfering with her peaceful commute.

Gachugu dived on a rant over free speech, accusing matatu preachers of trampling on the commuters' rights.

She claimed Christianity is the only religion 'hawking' its beliefs in matatus and demanded respect for the passengers' diverse faiths.

"One thing I have never understood is why Christians claim autonomy over free speech. If you want to exercise free speech anywhere else, everyone bashes you. Pastors and preachers feel they can come into peaceful commutes and preach the word. And it's okay.

Everyone has their beliefs, but why do we not see any other religion do this? I'd like to understand. Or are you guys all ok with that? I am genuinely tired," said Gachugu.

The seemingly taken-aback preacher did not utter a word and stood along the matatu's aisle during the one-minute dress down.

Her sentiments drew sharp criticism from social media users, who said she could opt not to use matatus and buy a car for comfort.

Others supported her stand, saying the preachers were becoming a nuisance in public service vehicles.

Idyllic.ke:

"I am for this. I avoid matatus that allow preachers. Sometimes, I want peace and quietness. There is a place and a time, and that's on the Sabbath."

Obscurity:

"Get a car that has no preacher, or better yet, just buy yours. The word of God is Precious over everything you are alive today because of God's grace. Don't take that likely."

Winnie:

"Put headphones on, let them preach."

Evamontez106:

"Who uses a matatu? The poor. Work hard."

Ray Julius:

"Preachers can be irritating. They should not be allowed to."

Lyrically.Lit:

"Thank you for standing up to these people's nonsense."

Obi Wan Nairobi:

"Nice. That's why I have headphones and earbuds.”

mashinflicto669:

“Buy a car.”

Are matatus for the poor?

The clash comes days after a University of Nairobi lecturer sparked outrage after claiming matatus are for the poor.

Speaking on Citizen TV, Dr Joy Kiiru said the poor use matatus since they are vulnerable and without alternative means of transport.

The economist criticised the motor vehicle tax, saying it would impact the poor, and urged the government to reconsider.