Super Metro ordered to fire 269 drivers before resuming operations

Super Metro, a well-known matatu Sacco, has been directed to dismiss 269 drivers as part of strict conditions it must meet before it can return to the roads.

This directive was handed down by the Transport Licensing Appeals Board (TLAB) tribunal in a ruling issued on Monday, April 14.

"The appellant (Super Metro) shall immediately disengage 269 drivers as per the list marked ‘SPM7’ annexed to the respondent's replying affidavit sworn on 10th April 2025," reads part of the orders.

This forms part of a broader set of eight conditions that the Sacco must meet to comply with safety and operational standards.

Just hours before the directive was made public, Super Metro had already suspended its services for a three-day period to address the issues raised.

In a statement, the Sacco expressed commitment to resolving the outstanding matters.

"Following a hearing with the Transport Licensing Appeals Board today (Monday), the Board has directed Super Metro Limited to suspend operations for the next three days to finalise the remaining compliance measures," it stated.

Beyond the termination of the 269 drivers, the Sacco has also been instructed to present 42 drivers, identified for frequent overspeeding, for mandatory retesting at the Likoni Driver Test Centre.

This move is aimed at curbing reckless driving and ensuring that only qualified personnel are behind the wheel.

In addition, eight vehicles with unresolved speed limiter violations are to be submitted for evaluation at the Likoni Motor Vehicle Inspection Centre.

The same inspection centre will also receive 31 other vehicles flagged for compliance issues, with detailed reports to be submitted to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

The Sacco is further required to submit the minutes and attendance records of its Road Safety Sensitisation sessions to NTSA's Director of Road Safety.

This is intended to confirm that its drivers have undergone proper safety training and awareness programs.

TLAB reinstated the earlier suspension imposed on March 18, pending proof of compliance.

"The appellant shall forthwith cease operations pending further orders upon confirmation of compliance with the terms of the orders herein," read part of the statement.

The tribunal stressed the gravity of the situation, pointing out that 269 drivers had been deemed unqualified, while the others faced serious safety-related violations.

Chairman Adrian Kamotho underlined the priority of safety across public transport operations.

"Public safety is paramount," he said, noting the importance of enforcing traffic rules and ensuring all drivers meet proper standards.

Super Metro had earlier stated that it had already complied with 90 percent of the March conditions and remains hopeful that it will resume operations soon.

"Super Metro Limited fully respects the decisions of the TLAB and the court. We are working diligently to address the outstanding compliance issues within the stipulated timeframe and will resume operations as soon as we receive approval from the relevant authorities," said the PSV operator.

The matter will be mentioned again on April 17, when the tribunal is expected to review Super Metro’s compliance and provide further direction.