The High Court in Kiambu has directed the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to document and retain detailed records of all payments made through its instant traffic fines system, as a case contesting the programme moves forward.
In orders issued on May 29, Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled that NTSA must maintain a comprehensive, structured record of every payment associated with automatic fines generated by the system.
The directive will remain in force until the court rules on a petition challenging the legality of the digital enforcement framework.
“A conservatory order is hereby issued requiring the 1st and the 2ndrespondents to record and maintain detailed information in a schedule for each and every payment made in respect of instant or automatic fines under the impugned system,” Justice Mwamuye stated.
High Court Orders NTSA to Record All Traffic Fines Payments
The case, filed by Wilberforce Akelo, challenges both the legal foundation and implementation of the automated traffic fines system.
The petitioner raises concerns over how the digital platform operates, including questions about due process and enforcement procedures.
Also Read: NTSA Explains Choices Drivers Will Have After Receiving a Traffic Violation Notification
The orders come just days before NTSA is set to roll out the system on June 1, following consultations with agencies such as the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the National Police Service (NPS).
The system is designed to enable real-time detection of traffic violations and instant issuance of penalties.
While the court did not suspend the rollout, the requirement to maintain a detailed payment trail places the programme under close judicial scrutiny.
According to the High Court, the petitioner is required to serve the application, petition, and court orders immediately, with proof of service due by the end of May 30. Respondents must file and serve their responses by June 2, and any rejoinders must be submitted by June 3.
“Take notice that any disobedience or non-observance of the order of the court served herewith will result in penal consequences to you and any other person(s) disobeying and not observing the same,” warned the court.
NTSA to Roll Out New Traffic Fines System Starting June 1
NTSA announced that motorists will no longer be required to appear in court for minor traffic offenses under a new fines system set to begin on June 1, 2026.
Also Read: NTSA to Roll Out New Traffic Fines System Starting June 1
In a statement on May 28, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) said the government will operationalize a modernized enforcement framework for minor traffic offenses under the Traffic Act.
The agency said the changes are aimed at enhancing road safety for all road users, improving compliance with traffic laws, reducing congestion in traffic courts, and promoting efficiency, transparency, and accountability in traffic enforcement.
Under the new framework, motorists who commit minor offenses will be issued a Police Notification of Traffic Offense instead of being immediately summoned to court.
Instead, they may receive a Police Notification of Traffic Offense.
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