Businessman SK Macharia on Monday caused a stir at the Nairobi offices of Directline Assurance Company Limited after declaring he had assumed control of the firm. Witnesses reported that he arrived at Hazina Towers accompanied by a group of people and announced immediate changes, including the dismissal of staff.
According to employees, the group forced entry into sections of the office before police were called in. The matter was reported to the Central Police Station, and the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) was also notified.
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CCTV footage reportedly captured Macharia at the reception area giving directives to staff. Efforts to obtain his comment on the incident were unsuccessful.
Directline’s Principal Officer and CEO, Sammy Kanyi, confirmed he had filed a report with the authorities. He alleged that Macharia declared his dismissal despite an existing court order barring interference in the company’s operations.
Court documents indicate that an injunction was issued last year restraining Macharia and others from accessing the offices, firing or hiring employees, or conducting any transactions on behalf of the firm. Another ruling also barred him from airing cautionary adverts about Directline on his Royal Media Services platforms.
Justice Francis Gikonyo previously noted that Directline is a separate legal entity whose financial stability should not be undermined before full hearings are concluded. The insurer had argued that the adverts damaged its reputation and business standing.
Macharia’s lawyer, Kamau Kuria, has maintained that his client is the rightful owner of the company. He accused the current management of seizing control improperly.
Meanwhile, IRA Chief Executive Officer Godfrey Kiptum reassured policyholders that the company remains fully licensed and operational. He made it clear that, all insurance contracts issued by Directline remain valid and enforceable.
Directline continues to dominate the PSV insurance market, covering matatus and buses nationwide. Despite a slight dip in market share in recent years, it remains the leading provider in the sector.
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