COURT DECLINES TO SUSPEND NTSA’S INSTANT TRAFFIC FINES 

A  petition against the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) newly introduced digital traffic fine system has been struck down by the High Court.

Motorist Kennedy Maingi had filed a petition seeking to suspend the instant fines, arguing that the automated enforcement mechanism grants the authority unchecked power, potentially opening the door for the harassment of drivers. The court ruled against halting the program, allowing it to proceed.

The system, which began rolling out this week, uses camera technology to detect speeding vehicles and issue penalties immediately. While designed to improve road safety, it has ignited widespread debate among the public. A common complaint among drivers is that the penalties are excessively steep, with some fearing the technology could be misused to target road users unfairly.

Responding to the criticism, NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa clarified that the primary goal of the initiative is not to generate state revenue, but to eliminate bribery and instil discipline on the roads.

“The instant fine management is not about collecting cash, it is about bringing sanity to our roads. Eliminating corruption is another key issue. By digitising the process, we remove human negotiation,” said Nashon.

Kondiwa detailed how the system works, noting that the cameras record the precise moment a vehicle exceeds the limit. In the event of a disagreement, photographic proof will be available.

“We will ensure the cameras are accompanied by proper speed signs clearly indicating the required speed for that section of the road. Speed zones depend on the design of the road,” Kondiwa stated.” he said.