Super metro sacco limited has won a temporary reprieve after the Transport Licensing Appeals Board (TLAB) issued an interim order staying the enforcement of the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) decision to suspend its operations.
The ruling, delivered on March 24 by TLAB Chairman Dr. Adrian Kamotho, allows SuperMetro to resume operations as a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operator while its appeal is heard and determined.
“This matter coming up before the Transport Licensing Appeals Board for directions on the Appellant’s Memorandum of Appeal and Notice of Motion… is hereby certified urgent for consideration ex-parte in the first instance,” the ruling stated.
SuperMetro had filed an appeal challenging NTSA’s decision dated March 18, which led to the suspension of its operating licence. The sacco argued that the ban was unfair and had a significant impact on commuters and employees who rely on its services.
The court’s directive compels NTSA to file and serve its response to SuperMetro’s appeal by March 25. The ruling further allows SuperMetro to present any additional affidavits by March 26, ahead of the substantive hearing set for March 27.
The key ruling in the interim order states that “SuperMetro Sacco Limited is at liberty to immediately resume operations in due compliance with the law,” effectively allowing its fleet back on the road.
The development marks a crucial victory for SuperMetro, which has been at the centre of a dispute with NTSA over compliance with transport regulations. The transport authority had earlier cited various violations, including expired inspection certificates, unqualified drivers, and breaches of speed limiter requirements, as grounds for the suspension.
