NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has withdrawn its instant traffic fines system, barely weeks after its rollout, following a High Court challenge and mounting public backlash.
In a notice issued on March 27, NTSA announced the withdrawal of its earlier “go-live” directive issued on March 9, effectively suspending the controversial system that allowed motorists to be fined on the spot for minor traffic offences.
Court challenge halts implementation
The reversal comes after the High Court of Kenya issued conservatory orders blocking the enforcement of the instant fines system.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye halted the rollout following a petition filed by lawyer Shadrack Wambui, who challenged the legality of the system, arguing it violated motorists’ right to a fair hearing.
The case remains active and is expected to be mentioned in court in April, with the future of the system now uncertain.
Public backlash and confusion
The instant fines system, introduced on major highways—especially in Nairobi—quickly sparked confusion and resistance among motorists, legal experts and civil society groups.
Under the system, traffic violations detected through automated cameras would trigger fines sent directly to vehicle owners via SMS, eliminating the need for court appearances in minor cases.
However, critics argued that the process lacked transparency and due process, as motorists had limited opportunity to challenge penalties before they were imposed.
NTSA cites need for public education
NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa said the withdrawal was necessary to allow for better public understanding of how minor traffic offences are handled under existing law.
“This withdrawal has been necessitated by the realisation that the public needs to understand the details and standard procedure of handling minor traffic offences,” the authority said.
The regulator added that it is working on clearer operational guidelines and will engage stakeholders before reintroducing the system.
The authority is now reviewing enforcement procedures in collaboration with agencies including the Judiciary, road authorities and law reform bodies, as it seeks to align the system with legal requirements.
Originally, the instant fines regime was designed to ease congestion in courts and improve compliance with traffic laws.
