NTSA suspends Instant Fines System after public outcry, court challenge

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Friday suspended its recently introduced instant fines system with immediate effect, following mounting public criticism and a legal challenge at the High Court.

NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa said the decision was made to allow for enhanced public education and stakeholder engagement on the proper handling of minor traffic offences under Kenyan law.

In a statement, the authority announced the withdrawal of its earlier public notice that had declared the system operational earlier this month. NTSA acknowledged that the rollout had raised concerns among motorists and stakeholders, particularly around the procedures governing instant fines.

“The withdrawal has been necessitated by the realisation that the public needs to better understand the details and standard procedures for handling minor traffic offences as defined in Section 117 of the Traffic Act,” the statement read.

The instant fines system had been designed to streamline enforcement by allowing traffic offenders to pay penalties on the spot for minor infractions, reducing court backlogs. However, critics argued that the framework lacked clarity and could be prone to abuse without sufficient safeguards.

NTSA now says it will work closely with government agencies and other stakeholders to review and refine the framework before any reintroduction. The authority also pledged to issue clear guidelines aligned with existing laws to eliminate confusion and misinformation.

Despite the setback, NTSA maintained that it remains committed to improving road safety and reducing fatalities. It emphasised that a consistent, fair, and predictable system for administering traffic penalties is critical in addressing the country’s high rate of road accidents.

The High Court is expected to provide further direction on the matter as the legal challenge proceeds.