Super Metro SACCO, a prominent player in Kenya’s public transport sector, has officially resumed
passenger services just three days after being ordered to suspend
operations due to serious compliance violations. The move follows a decision by
the Transport Licensing Appeals Board Tribunal, which temporarily lifted
the ban while mandating that the SACCO adhere to a fresh set of regulatory
conditions.
Tribunal
Clears Super Metro to Resume with Conditions
In its ruling on Thursday, April 17,
the tribunal, chaired by Dr. Adrian Kamotho, declared that the earlier
suspension order—issued on April 14, 2025—was vacated, allowing Super
Metro to immediately return to the roads. However, the green light to
resume operations is conditional.
The SACCO must still fulfill several critical
requirements to remain operational, including a thorough review of its
workforce and vehicles. A total of 269 drivers were ordered to be
dismissed, and 42 others must undergo mandatory re-testing due to
allegations of speeding and non-compliance with traffic rules.
The tribunal further instructed that eight
vehicles flagged for various infractions be taken to the Likoni Motor
Vehicle Inspection Centre for detailed inspection and certification.
NTSA’s
Earlier Suspension Prompted by Safety Concerns
The current situation stems from a decision
made by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) on March
18, 2025, when Super Metro’s license was suspended for allegedly failing to
implement required safety protocols. The suspension aimed to protect
passengers and road users following a pattern of regulatory violations,
including excessive speeding and failure to maintain vehicle standards.
In response, Super Metro challenged the NTSA’s
directive, citing procedural injustice. The SACCO argued that it had been
denied a fair hearing and accused the regulator of acting on unverified and
one-sided information without offering an opportunity for rebuttal—raising
concerns about the breach of natural justice principles.
Tribunal
Sets Further Hearing Date to Finalize Compliance Path
The case is far from closed. The tribunal has
scheduled a follow-up session for May 2, during which additional matters
related to Super Metro’s operations will be reviewed. The tribunal emphasized
that while operations may resume for now, the SACCO must demonstrate ongoing
efforts to align with national transport laws.
The board's ruling has been formally
communicated to key stakeholders, including Inspector-General of Police
Douglas Kanja, with the expectation that compliance will be actively
monitored.
Public
Safety and Legal Accountability in Focus
As Super Metro buses return to Kenyan roads,
the spotlight now shifts to how effectively the SACCO can rebuild public trust
while complying with the stringent demands set by transport authorities. With
hundreds of drivers dismissed and vehicles under scrutiny, the case underscores
the growing push for accountability and safety in Kenya’s transport sector.
Passengers and industry observers alike will
be watching closely to see if Super Metro can retain its reputation while
aligning with all regulatory expectations.
