NAIROBI, Kenya — The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has demanded urgent clarification from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) over the newly launched instant traffic fines system, raising concerns about transparency, due process, and public participation.
In a letter dated March 9, 2026, the motorists’ lobby asked the authority to explain how the automated enforcement framework will operate and how motorists’ rights will be protected.
MAK, a recognised participant in the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), said the public notice introducing instant fines under the Traffic (Minor Offences) Rules No. 161 of 2016 leaves several key questions unanswered.
“The Motorists Association of Kenya writes to seek clarification on the following issues arising from the said notice,” the organisation stated in the letter.
Questions on due process
Among the concerns raised is how motorists can challenge fines issued under the new automated framework.
MAK noted that the notice does not clearly outline the procedure for drivers who wish to plead not guilty to offences cited under the instant fines regime.
“The notice does not clarify the procedure for motorists who wish to plead not guilty to offences cited under the instant fines regime,” the association said.
It warned that unclear procedures could create unnecessary congestion within the justice system if motorists are unsure how to contest penalties.
Concerns over automated enforcement technology
The lobby group also sought details on the technology behind the automated enforcement system, including speed cameras and other monitoring devices used to detect violations.
MAK asked NTSA to disclose how such equipment is calibrated, certified, and periodically verified.
“Kindly provide details on the calibration, certification and periodic verification of speed cameras and other automated enforcement devices, including the institutions responsible for such certification,” the letter stated.
The association further warned that automated systems could raise due process concerns if adequate safeguards are not in place.
“Clarification is required on safeguards put in place to address concerns that automated camera systems may appear to act simultaneously as investigator, judge, and executioner,” the letter added.
Questions over revenue management
Another issue raised relates to financial accountability for fines collected under the system.
MAK asked the authority to clarify who the designated accounting officer is for the funds and which government account or fund will receive the revenue generated from the penalties.
The association also questioned whether the required public participation process was conducted before introducing the framework.
“Since the implementation of such a framework requires public participation, kindly indicate when and where such public participation was conducted and which stakeholders attended or were consulted,” the letter said.
NTSA’s position
The concerns come shortly after NTSA launched a fully automated Instant Fines Traffic Management System designed to detect traffic violations and send notifications to motorists via SMS.
According to NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa, the platform is intended to operate without human intervention, improving efficiency and accountability in traffic enforcement.
Authorities say the system is expected to reduce corruption in traffic policing and enhance compliance with road safety rules.
However, MAK has asked the regulator to provide responses within 48 hours, citing the high public interest surrounding the implementation of the new enforcement system.
