Tribunal Temporarily Reinstates Nicco Movers’ Licence Pending Appeal

By Effie Akinyi
June 29, 2026

The Transport Licensing Appeals Tribunal has temporarily reinstated the operating licence of Nicco Movers Limited, allowing the public service vehicle (PSV) operator to resume operations as it challenges the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) decision to revoke its licence.

In its ruling, the tribunal suspended the enforcement of NTSA’s decision pending the hearing and determination of the appeal. The judges noted that the case raises important legal issues, including whether the company was accorded a fair hearing and whether revoking the entire licence was a proportionate response to the alleged violations.

Nicco Movers moved to the tribunal after NTSA revoked its operating licence over alleged safety lapses, regulatory non-compliance, and fleet management failures following investigations into the death of a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) student who was allegedly thrown from one of the company’s vehicles. The incident sparked public outrage and prompted the transport regulator to take disciplinary action against the company.

During the proceedings, lawyers representing Nicco Movers argued that the revocation had disrupted transport services, threatened hundreds of jobs, and affected investments worth billions of shillings. They maintained that many compliant vehicle owners were unfairly punished for the actions of a few individuals.

NTSA, however, defended its decision, insisting that public safety remains its top priority. The authority told the tribunal that repeated efforts to ensure compliance had failed and that the operator had breached several road safety requirements.

While granting the temporary orders, the tribunal emphasized that Nicco Movers must continue complying with all safety regulations as the appeal proceeds. The matter is expected to return before the tribunal for further directions on the hearing of the case.