The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has indicated it will move to court seeking an injunction after the High Court of Kenya halted the rollout of the recently introduced instant traffic fines system.
According to the authority, the planned application will request a temporary order aimed at preserving the current situation while the court considers a petition challenging the legality of the fines. Such an order would allow NTSA to continue enforcing the penalties until the case is fully heard and determined.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, March 12, NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa said the move demonstrates the authority’s determination to strengthen road safety and enforce traffic regulations across the country.
If the court grants the request, the authority will be able to proceed with the implementation of the instant fines framework as the legal challenge continues. The case is expected to be addressed in court next month.
NTSA had earlier announced the rollout of the digital traffic enforcement system on March 9. Under the system, motorists who commit traffic violations are to receive immediate notifications through SMS alerts informing them of the offence and the corresponding penalty.
The system targets several common traffic offences, including overspeeding, improper lane usage, driving on pedestrian pavements, and failure to wear seat belts. Depending on the seriousness of the violation, offenders would face penalties ranging from KSh500 to KSh10,000.
However, Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued a conservatory order suspending the program after a petition was filed by lawyer Shadrack Wambui. The judge directed that the matter be mentioned on April 9 for further directions and determination of the petition.
Meanwhile, Kondiwa also revealed that NTSA is preparing to launch a nationwide operation targeting fraudulent insurance providers. He noted that widespread malpractice within the insurance sector has left many motorists paying high premiums without receiving adequate protection.