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NTSA Clarifies Instant Traffic Fines System Remains Operational Despite Court Orders

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has clarified that Kenya's instant traffic fines system remains fully operational despite recent court directives affecting part of the programme.

NTSA Director-General Nashon Kondiwa explained that orders issued by the Kiambu Law Courts only affect the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) component of the initiative and do not suspend the enforcement of the Minor Traffic Offences Rules, which continue to be implemented nationwide.

Addressing public concerns over the status of the system, Kondiwa stated that traffic offences are still being detected and enforced through existing automated technologies and police-issued notices.

"We have orders from the Kiambu Law Courts directing us to keep records of payments and another order suspending the implementation of the PPP component," he said.

He emphasized that the court orders should not be interpreted as a suspension of the regulations governing instant traffic fines.

"It is important to distinguish between the PPP implementation and the Minor Traffic Offences Rules. They are separate issues, and no court has suspended the rules," Kondiwa noted.

According to NTSA, traffic violations continue to be captured through surveillance cameras installed by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA). In addition, traffic police officers are using a digital enforcement application to identify and process offences committed on Kenyan roads.

As a result, motorists found violating traffic regulations may still receive notices and be required to pay the prescribed penalties, even as the legal proceedings concerning the PPP arrangement continue.

The instant fines system was introduced as part of broader efforts to enhance road safety, improve compliance with traffic laws, and streamline enforcement processes. The framework allows motorists accused of minor traffic offences to settle penalties without undergoing lengthy court proceedings, helping to reduce case backlogs and improve efficiency.

The system combines automated cameras, digital technology, and police enforcement to detect offences such as speeding, running red lights, and lane indiscipline. Once an offence is verified, the registered vehicle owner or driver receives a notification detailing the nature of the offence, its location, and the applicable fine.

Motorists are required to pay the fines within the stipulated period. Failure to comply may result in additional enforcement measures, including prosecution and restrictions on access to NTSA services.

Kondiwa also dismissed claims that the programme is primarily designed to generate revenue for the authority, maintaining that its primary objective is to promote safer roads and improve compliance with traffic regulations.