The Nyeri High Court has suspended moving matatu operators from three main stages in Nyeri to a newly constructed Kes 600 million facility at Asian Quarters.
Judge Mogare Dennis Kizito issued conservatory orders stopping the move on Friday after matatu SACCOs filed a petition in court.
The county government had directed the operators to relocate to the new stage within seven days, citing congestion at the current bus parks.
The World Bank funded the costruction of the new modern stage, Nyeri’s flagship project, under the Kenya Urban Infrastructure Program.
However, SACCOs, led by 2NK SACCO Chairman James Kahiro, moved to court under a certificate of urgency, deeming the relocation unfair.
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Kahiro claimed that moving matatus to the new stage would negate the gains made over the past 50 years while operating from the three existing bus parks.
In his ruling, Justice Kizito stated that the seven-day notice for relocation failed to consider the public interest, the smooth implementation of the policy, and its ramifications for all parties involved.
He said this justified issuing orders to preserve the status quo.
“In that regard, it is hereby directed that, pending further directions, I issue a conservatory order requiring the applicants not to relocate to the newly designated operating sites,” said Justice Kizito.
The court will mention the matter on November 27.
