NTSA, KLRC Push Major Overhaul of Traffic Offences as Motorists Set to Face Fines Instead of Court
Motorists accused of minor traffic offences could soon avoid arrest and court appearances altogether under sweeping reforms being spearheaded by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Kenya Law Reform Commission (KLRC).
Under the proposed changes, disputes arising from traffic fines would be heard by an independent tribunal rather than the traditional criminal courts, marking a significant shift in how road traffic violations are handled across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, KLRC confirmed that it is providing technical support to NTSA in reviewing the legal framework governing minor traffic offences. The review aims to transition such offences from criminal prosecution to an administrative enforcement system.
If implemented, motorists found guilty of designated minor traffic violations would no longer face arrest, prosecution, or criminal proceedings. Instead, NTSA would administer penalties through a structured administrative process similar to those used in several countries around the world.
According to KLRC, the ongoing law reform exercise will identify and classify offences that qualify for administrative action and determine the corresponding penalties for each violation.
The commission argued that the move is intended to simplify the enforcement of traffic regulations while reducing the burden currently placed on the judicial system.
“To safeguard the right to a fair hearing under Article 50(1) of the Constitution, disputes arising from the imposition of administrative penalties will be determined by an independent tribunal,” KLRC stated.
The proposed tribunal is expected to serve as the primary avenue for motorists seeking to challenge traffic fines imposed under the new framework, ensuring that disputes are handled independently and fairly.
Officials believe the reforms could dramatically reduce the number of minor traffic-related cases currently clogging courtrooms, allowing judges and magistrates to focus on more serious criminal matters.
The latest proposal builds on reforms introduced by NTSA on June 1, 2026, which allowed motorists accused of specific traffic offences to settle prescribed fines without immediately appearing before a court.
Under the existing framework, motorists issued with a Police Notification of Traffic Offence can either admit liability and pay the prescribed fine within a stipulated period or challenge the allegation through designated dispute resolution mechanisms.
Supporters of the reforms argue that the changes will improve efficiency, reduce delays in the justice system, and offer a quicker resolution process for minor offences. However, the proposal is likely to attract public scrutiny as stakeholders examine whether the new administrative model adequately protects motorists’ rights while maintaining accountability on Kenyan roads.
Should the reforms be adopted, they would represent one of the most significant changes to traffic law enforcement in Kenya in recent years, fundamentally altering how millions of motorists interact with traffic authorities and the justice system.
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