The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), together with other government agencies, is reviewing speed limits. The move responds to complaints from motorists regarding the rollout of the controversial instant fines.
The review coincides with the temporary suspension of the instant fines by the High Court. Petitioners Shadrack Wambui and Sheria Mtaani challenged the fines, prompting the court to halt enforcement pending a hearing.
Transport CS Davis Chirchir said the fines will now be classified into two systems. Major offences will attract court appearances, while minor offences will allow instant payments for motorists to continue their journeys.
Minor infractions will include administrative breaches, while major offences cover serious traffic violations. The division aims to make the system fairer and reduce unnecessary court congestion.
Collaboration With Government Agencies
NTSA is engaging with the Judiciary, Kenya Bureau of Statistics, KeNHA, KURA, and the Kenya Law Reform Commission. These talks aim to ensure the revised system aligns with legal, statistical, and infrastructure standards across the country.
CS Chirchir confirmed that the 2016 speed limits had expired. He defended the instant fines as a mechanism to decongest courts and enhance convenience for motorists.
“The NTSA instant fines system is meant to decongest our courts. It allows motorists to pay fines without appearing in court,” Chirchir said.
The instant fines cover speeding, lane violations, driving on pavements, and not wearing seatbelts. Penalties range from Ksh500 to Ksh10,000, depending on the severity of the offence.
NTSA has also requested the High Court to issue a temporary order maintaining the status quo. If granted, enforcement of fines could continue until the petition is fully determined next month.
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