Guardian Coach has come out fighting, strongly dismissing reports that its entire fleet has been grounded by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). In a confusing 24 hours for travelers, the bus company insists it is "fully operational," even as the regulator cracks the whip on rogue operators.

The confusion stems from a crackdown announced by the NTSA on Monday, January 19, 2026. Following a deadly festive season that saw multiple fatalities, the authority suspended the licenses of four operators: Monna Comfort Sacco, Greenline Company, Naekana Route 134, and Uwezo Coast Sacco. Guardian Coach, however, was not on the suspension list but was instead placed under a "strict compliance window."

The Fine Print

While social media was awash with claims of a total ban, the reality is more nuanced. The NTSA has given Guardian Coach 21 days to fix specific safety violations. The directive requires the company to present 24 specific vehicles for fresh inspection and speed limiter checks. Furthermore, 18 drivers from the company have had their licenses suspended for 90 days due to speeding violations.

"We confirm to our customers unreservedly that NTSA has not suspended our operations," the company stated in a press release. "We are working hand in hand with the authority to bolster service quality." It is a classic case of damage control, vital for a brand that prides itself on safety and reliability in a chaotic sector.

• The Crackdown: The NTSA's move comes after a bloody December. The suspension of the other four Saccos is immediate, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Public members have been explicitly warned not to board vehicles from the suspended companies.
• Night Travel Rules: All operators are now facing enhanced scrutiny on night travel licenses. The NTSA is demanding proof of fatigue management systems—a critical issue given that many accidents happen in the wee hours due to driver exhaustion.
• Passenger Panic: The rumours caused panic at booking offices in River Road, Nairobi, with passengers demanding refunds. Guardian's quick rebuttal has calmed the waters, but the 21-day clock is ticking.

A Wake-Up Call

For the matatu and bus industry, this is a shot across the bow. The government is signaling that the "business as usual" approach to road carnage will no longer be tolerated. For Guardian Coach, a company often seen as a tier above the rest, the scrutiny on its speed limiters is embarrassing.

Travelers are advised to check the status of their bus before booking. While Guardian is still on the road, the NTSA has made it clear: comply or perish. The next three weeks will determine if the "Guardian" of the road can keep its shield, or if it will join the list of grounded giants.