Kennedy Kaunda, the viral figure behind the "with all due respect" statement during transport sector protests, was notably absent from a meeting between President William Ruto and transport operators in Mombasa.

• The meeting occurred on Thursday, May 21 and Friday, May 22, 2026, in response to protests over increased fuel prices.
• Kaunda, CEO of the East Africa Tour Guides and Drivers Association (EATGDA), had publicly contradicted the Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi earlier in the week.
• His absence fueled online speculation about whether he was excluded or chose not to attend the high-level engagement.