Twelve Matatu Saccos, including Kinatwa, ENA, K Prestige, and Makos, have opposed a petition seeking their removal from stages within Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). The Saccos, which operate from Ola Energy (Afya Centre) and Total Energies (Rhino) near OTC petrol stations, have dismissed claims that their operations endanger passengers.
The petition, filed by Ezekiel Oyugi and John Karuru at the Constitution and Human Rights Division in Milimani, alleges that overcrowding around these petrol stations poses a potential safety hazard. The petitioners warn that even a small spark could trigger a major explosion.
However, the 12 Saccos have refuted the allegations through a replying affidavit, stating that no such incidents have occurred since they began operating in the area decades ago. They term the petition a politically motivated attempt to embarrass Nairobi County’s administration and frustrate the national government’s efforts to streamline transport.
Represented by lawyer Danstan Omari, the Saccos argue that halting their operations would have dire economic consequences. They reveal that a shutdown would directly impact 3,485 employees across the 12 Saccos, causing widespread job losses. Additionally, they estimate that county governments could lose up to Ksh291 million annually in crossing licenses, while the national government could forfeit around Ksh2.86 billion in fuel tax revenue.
The affidavit further notes that service providers in the automotive and petroleum sectors would experience income losses amounting to approximately Ksh7.8 billion yearly due to reduced vehicle operations.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi has directed that the petition be served to the respondents within seven days, with responses filed within 14 days thereafter. The matter is scheduled for mention on January 26, 2026, for further directions.
