Betting Company, betPawa has suffered a major setback after the High Court on Wednesday dismissed its application seeking court orders to temporarily suspend a decision that cancelled its operational license.
High Court Judge Weldon Korir in his ruling said he cannot issue any orders until parties in the case are all heard.
“I do not find it just and proper to issue interim any orders, let parties file and serve their responses, matter to be heard on the July 26,” ruled judge Korir as quoted by citizentv.co.ke.
Nanovas International (K) Limited trading as betPawa moved to Court on Monday seeking orders to be allowed to continue operations without interference.
BetPawa is among betting firms whose licenses were recently cancelled and their pay bill numbers and SMS codes suspended for allegedly failing to renew their operational permits.
In the case hearing, betPawa through its lawyer wanted the court to temporarily suspend the order by the Betting Control and Licenses Board (BCLB) pending hearing and determination of the case.
The betting firm told the court that their business is suffering after BCLB failed to renew its licence.
“Betpawa is a legitimate business in Kenya and was given the license by the government and prior to its license expiry it applied to have the license renewed,” the court heard.
Betting and Gaming Control Board however opposed the betting firm’s application saying orders to temporarily suspend its decision will not be fair until they respond to the case.
“We oppose the issuance of any orders. We do not find it just and proper to issue interim any orders,” said BGCB.
The case will continue on July 26.