Matatu operators in court to stop ban on picking and dropping at petrol stations

In a certificate of urgency, the petitioners - ENA Coach, Easy Coach, Mololine, North Rift, GTS Supreme Sacco, Nenus Shuttle, Transline Classic, Prestige Limited, Kangema Sacco, and Super Premium T&T -warned that the directives would cripple their operations and disrupt vital public transport services.

The transport operators said they were issued immediate orders to halt passenger operations at fuel stations, describing the move as abrupt, procedurally flawed, and economically damaging.

They argue that enforcing the ban during the peak festive season could leave thousands of commuters stranded, affecting both long-distance and shuttle services.

The petitioners further argued that there is no record of incidents where their operations endangered public safety at Nairobi petrol stations, while similar services continue unhindered in other parts of the country. 

Through lawyer Stanley Kinyanjui and Danstan Omari the petitioner have questioned why Nairobi commuters are being singled out.

Through the court application, the transport companies sought urgent intervention to prevent irreparable harm, sudden halts in operations, and massive financial losses.

The counsel has asked the High Court to prioritise the matter, arguing that any delay in issuing conservatory orders would render the petition ineffective.