Matatu Saccos Rush to Court to Halt Sudden CBD Fuel Station Ban

Thirteen major matatu companies have filed an urgent case at the High Court to stop a new ban that blocks them from picking and dropping off passengers at petrol stations in Nairobi’s CBD. They warn the directive by EPRA and Nairobi County could disrupt essential public transport services.

The operators say the enforcement was abrupt. They argue officials failed to consult them. They believe the move threatens their daily operations and could leave thousands of commuters stranded, especially as the festive season begins.

The companies involved include ENA Coach, Easy Coach, Mololine, North Rift, GTS Supreme Sacco, Nenus Shuttle, Transline Classic, Prestige Limited, Kangema Sacco, and Super Premium T&T. They claim the ban is unfair and unnecessary. They insist they have not caused safety concerns while operating at fuel stations.

Moreover, they note that similar operations continue in other regions without interference. They now question why Nairobi alone is being targeted. They say the directive lacks transparency and a proper operational plan.

Lawyers Stanley Kinyanjui and Danstan Omari are representing the petitioners. They argue that the ban risks huge financial losses. They say workers may lose jobs. They warn that commuters will suffer sudden inconvenience with no alternative pickup points provided.

The companies now want the High Court to issue immediate conservatory orders. They stress that any delay will make the petition meaningless. They fear the damage caused to their businesses could be irreversible.

They also fault authorities for acting without considering commuter patterns in the CBD. They believe officials should first provide a workable transition plan.

The transport operators hope the court will intervene quickly. They want the directive suspended. They want a balanced approach that protects safety while safeguarding public mobility in Nairobi.