Directline Assurance./FILE
The drama involved businessman S.K. Macharia at its Nairobi offices at Hazina Towers.
In a statement, the Board of Directors and Management confirmed that the company is fully operational, despite an ongoing shareholder dispute currently before the courts.
“Directline continues to fully comply with all legal processes related to the matter and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of governance and service delivery,” the company said.
The insurer emphasised that it is actively issuing insurance covers and settling all valid claims, stating that Sh1.47 billion had been paid out by mid-September 2025.
The assurance follows chaotic scenes where Directline is headquartered.
Staff reported that S.K. Macharia, accompanied by several individuals, entered the premises and announced that he had taken over operations.
According to eyewitnesses, Macharia issued verbal directives, including the dismissal of some employees, and allegedly forced entry into restricted areas of the office.
CCTV footage from the day showed Macharia and his entourage at the company’s reception, apparently issuing instructions to staff.
“We have reported the matter to the police and the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA),” said Sammy Kanyi, Directline’s Principal Officer and Chief Executive Officer.
Police from Central Police Station later visited the offices, confirming that investigations are underway.
Court documents show that Macharia has been under a standing injunction issued last year prohibiting him and others from interfering with Directline’s operations.
The order specifically bars them from hiring or terminating employees, issuing directives to contractors, and accessing company offices.
Conducting financial transactions on behalf of Directline without shareholder or board consent
In a separate case, the courts also stopped Macharia from airing cautionary advertisements about Directline Assurance through his media stations, which include those under Royal Media Services.
The company had argued that the ads were damaging to its reputation and financial standing.
Despite the legal wrangles and public drama, Directline insists that it is committed to its core mandate and to ensuring continuity of service to clients and business partners.
“We wish to assure all our stakeholders that it is business as usual at Directline Assurance,” the company said.
