Businessman SK Macharia stormed the Directline Assurance offices at Hazina Towers.
Chaos broke out on Monday at Hazina Towers in Nairobi after businessman SK Macharia stormed the Directline Assurance offices. Witnesses said he arrived with a group, broke down doors, and declared that several staff members had been fired.
Employees said they were shocked by the takeover attempt, especially since there is an existing court order stopping him from interfering with the company’s operations.
Staff later reported the matter to the Central Police Station and the Insurance Regulatory Authority.
CCTV footage from the incident showed Macharia at the reception area, directing his group on what action to take.
Directline Assurance CEO and Principal Officer, Sammy Kanyi, confirmed that he had reported the matter to the authorities.
“He announced he had fired me. He also led a group to break down doors, yet there is a court order stopping such moves. Let the authorities take necessary action,” Kanyi told reporters.
Police officers later visited the scene and confirmed investigations had been launched.
Court records show that in 2024, a Nairobi court issued multiple injunctions restraining Macharia from interfering with Directline operations. The orders specifically barred him from: Hiring or firing employees. Issuing directives to contractors. Signing cheques or making financial transfers without board approval. Interfering with company investments.
In another ruling, the courts also blocked Macharia from broadcasting cautionary adverts through his Royal Media Services, which the insurer argued were defamatory and harmful to its financial standing.
Justice Francis Gikonyo ruled that Directline is a distinct legal entity that deserves protection from interference.
The incident is the latest chapter in a long-running battle for control of Directline Assurance. Macharia, who also owns Royal Media Services, has been in constant disputes with the insurer’s management over governance.
Courts have repeatedly stated that only Directline’s shareholders and the duly elected board have the legal authority to make decisions. Regulators, including the Insurance Regulatory Authority, are closely monitoring the matter to safeguard policyholders and investors.
