Super Metro disputes NTSA claims, says suspension unfair

A fleet of Super Metro vehicles at Isuzu East Africa yard on Mombasa road. [File, Standard]

Super Metro Limited has dismissed claims by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) regarding the suspension of its operator licence, saying the allegations are outdated and inaccurate.

The company insists it has complied fully with all regulations and resolved any issues before the suspension.

In a statement on Thursday, Super Metro said NTSA’s concerns about vehicle inspections, driver qualifications, and labour compliance had already been addressed.

NTSA claimed that out of 294 vehicles, five had expired inspection certificates, 15 had expired Road Service Licences, and several had speed limiter issues.

Super Metro said all certificates and licences were renewed before the suspension. It added that once issues with speed limiters were identified, vendors resolved them across all affected vehicles.

NTSA alleged that 64 Super Metro drivers failed a retest on 10 March, leading to their licences being suspended.

The company clarified that the drivers had completed the required retraining and retesting three weeks earlier.

“All affected drivers have been recertified and are fully qualified,” Super Metro said, adding that NTSA’s claim does not reflect its current operational status.

NTSA also cited violations of the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, including labour and statutory deductions.

Super Metro said it had ensured full compliance by providing signed contracts for drivers and staff, along with up-to-date records of PAYE, NSSF, and other remittances.

“These records are available for NTSA’s review,” the company stated.

Super Metro said it had cooperated fully with NTSA during the investigation and had provided all required documentation.

The company termed the suspension unfair and harmful to its thousands of employees and passengers who rely on its services.

“We urge NTSA to review our compliance efforts and reconsider this suspension,” the statement read.