A confrontation is brewing over the soul of Nairobi's transport system, as Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) openly defy a court order and demand the immediate eviction of matatus from Central Business District petrol stations. The move threatens to unleash travel chaos for thousands of Kenyans relying on these services for festive season travel.

This high-stakes standoff pits the legislative authority of City Hall against the Judiciary, directly impacting the operations of at least 13 major PSV saccos and the daily commute of countless citizens. The core of the dispute is whether the convenience of these informal termini outweighs the significant safety risks cited by regulators.

On Tuesday, December 2, High Court Justice Enoch Chacha Mwita issued a conservatory order allowing saccos like ENA Coach, Easy Coach, and Mololine to continue their operations from the fuel stations. The ruling mandated that the status quo be maintained while the affected parties—including the saccos, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), and the county government—engage in dialogue. A follow-up hearing to review the negotiations is scheduled for January 26, 2026.

MCAs Reject Ruling, Issue Ultimatum

Despite the court's directive, the County Assembly’s Transport Committee has taken a hardline stance. Led by Gatina ward representative Kennedy Swaka, the committee issued a seven-day ultimatum to the county executive and EPRA to clear the matatus out. "We are issuing a seven days ultimatum to Governor Johnson Sakaja led administration to remove these matatu saccos with immediate effect," Swaka declared.

The MCAs argue that the practice of using petrol stations as termini is illegal and a disaster waiting to happen. "This move is endangering the lives of Nairobi residents and we will not sit and watch," warned Korogocho MCA Absalom Odhiambo Matach, citing the inherent risks of mixing large crowds with flammable materials. EPRA's regulations, based on the Petroleum Act, restrict PSV operations within fuel stations to mitigate fire hazards.

Commuters and Livelihoods in the Balance

For the transport companies, the court's decision was a temporary lifeline. Represented by lawyer Danstan Omari, the saccos argued that a sudden eviction would be procedurally unfair and cause irreparable harm to their businesses and the city's transport network. They contend they have operated from these locations for years without major incidents and that other businesses attracting high foot traffic operate freely in petrol stations.

The standoff leaves Nairobians in a precarious position. The matatu industry is the backbone of the city's public transport, and any disruption could have massive economic and social ripple effects, especially during the peak holiday travel season.

As the ultimatum clock ticks, all eyes are on Governor Sakaja's administration and EPRA. Their next move will determine whether the city heads for a managed transport solution or a chaotic clash between political will and judicial authority, with commuters caught squarely in the middle.