NTSA withdraws instant fines system after court setback

NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 27 – The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has withdrawn its instant fines system following public opposition and a court suspension.

In a statement, the authority said it had revoked the March 9 notice announcing the rollout of the system, citing the need for greater public understanding of procedures governing minor traffic offences.

“This withdrawal has been necessitated by realisation that the public need to understand the details and standard procedure of handling minor traffic offenses as defined in Section 117 of the Traffic Act,” NTSA said.

“The Authority will communicate the standard procedures aligned to the provisions of the existing laws on handling of instant fines and minor traffic offenses to avoid any misinformation and provide clarity on the same.”

The move follows a ruling by the High Court declining an application by NTSA to lift conservatory orders that had halted implementation of the system.

Petitioners had challenged the fines, arguing they were procedurally flawed and unfair to motorists.

The court directed that the matter be heard inter partes, noting the case raises significant public interest issues and affects substantive rights.

It also ruled that the existing conservatory orders would remain in force pending a full hearing involving all parties, including NTSA, the State Law Office and KCB Bank Kenya.

The withdrawal marks a setback for the regulator’s efforts to digitise traffic enforcement, amid growing scrutiny over due process and public awareness.