Super Metro Allowed To Resume Operations After Court Order Against NTSA

Super Metro's fleet of over 200 matatus has been granted a reprieve after the Transport Licensing Appeals Board (TLAB) temporarily suspended a decision by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) that had revoked its operating license.

In a directive issued on Monday, March 24, by TLAB Chairman Dr. Adrian Kamotho, the Board ruled that the appeal would initially be considered ex-parte and instructed the NTSA to submit its response by Tuesday, March 25.

The court order also stated that the suspension imposed by NTSA has been temporarily lifted.

"That pending inter-partes hearing of the motion and the Memorandum of Appeal herein on Thursday, March 27, an interim order is hereby issued staying the execution/enforcement/operation of the decision of the respondent dated March 18, 2025 (NTSA/C/RT/010/2VOL. (1)), suspending the operations of the appellant herein, Super Metro Sacco Limited as a PSV operator," read the ruling in part.

The ruling added, "The appellant is at liberty to immediately resume operations in due compliance with the law."

Additionally, the board ordered that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja be notified of the ruling to ensure that the buses can operate without the risk of being impounded by law enforcement.

The tribunal's decision follows a complaint filed by Super Metro on Friday, March 21, challenging NTSA’s suspension, which the company described as arbitrary and unfair.

The Sacco contended that it had made significant investments to comply with regulatory requirements and argued that NTSA’s suspension would have severely disrupted its operations, affecting thousands of livelihoods.

In its appeal, the Sacco also maintained that the suspension was founded on speculation and lacked a thorough investigation.

NTSA announced on Thursday, March 20 the suspension of Super Metro, stating it would be in force until the company meets all requirements outlined in the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014, along with other stipulated conditions.

NTSA also warned the public against using vehicles affiliated with the SACCO. "This is to notify the Public that the Authority has suspended Super Metro Limited’s operator licence until the Company fully complies with the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014 and other set conditions," the notice read in part.