Legal Blow to NTSA as Court Suspends Instant Traffic Fines System
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Legal Blow to NTSA as Court Suspends Instant Traffic Fines System
Court Suspends Rollout of Automated Traffic Penalties
The High Court of Kenya has temporarily halted the rollout of the automated instant traffic-fine system introduced by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
In orders issued on Thursday, Justice Bahati Mwamuye granted conservatory orders suspending the system’s implementation until a petition challenging its legality is heard and determined.
The petition was filed by lawyer Shadrack Wambui, who argues that the directive raises legal and procedural concerns.
Enforcement of Automated Fines Put on Hold
The court directed NTSA and all parties involved to immediately halt the issuance, generation, demand, or enforcement of instant or automated traffic penalties.
Justice Mwamuye also barred authorities from using algorithm-based systems or other automated technologies to issue traffic fines under the contested Instant Fines Traffic Management System.
Further, the order restrains respondents, their agents, officers, and any individuals acting on their behalf, including those operating within multi-agency enforcement teams, from implementing the system until the matter is fully heard and determined.
Legal Blow to NTSA as Court Suspends Instant Traffic Fines System
Court Sets Timeline for Legal Battle
The court has set strict timelines for the case moving forward.
Petitioners have until March 13, 2026 to serve the court order to all respondents. NTSA and the State Law Office must file their responses by March 20, 2026.
The matter will be mentioned again on April 9, 2026 to confirm compliance and set a date for an expedited hearing.
Justice Mwamuye noted that the court intends to deliver a final determination within 90 days after the mention date.
NTSA Defends the New Enforcement System
Earlier this week, NTSA had announced that the fully automated traffic enforcement system was now operational and capable of issuing traffic fines without human intervention.
According to the authority, the system is part of its broader road safety campaign aimed at improving compliance and accountability on Kenyan roads.
“The system is designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in traffic enforcement,” NTSA said in a statement.
How the Automated Traffic System Works
Under the system, smart cameras installed along major roads capture traffic violations in real time.
These cameras are positioned along key highways such as the Thika Superhighway, Mombasa Road, and the Southern Bypass.
The network includes both fixed and mobile units that detect offences such as speeding, lane indiscipline, driving on pavements, illegal public service vehicle boarding, mobile phone use while driving, and failure to wear seatbelts.
The system uses Artificial Intelligence together with Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology to verify vehicle registration details against NTSA’s database and the owner’s e-driving licence.
Once a violation is confirmed, registered vehicle owners receive an instant SMS notification detailing the offence, including its location, time, and the fine amount.
Fines and Penalties for Motorists
According to NTSA, traffic fines issued through the system typically range between Sh500 and Sh10,000 depending on the offence committed.
Motorists are required to settle the fines within seven days through KCB Group branches, mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa, or via USSD codes.
Drivers who fail to pay within the stipulated period risk accumulating additional penalties.
NTSA also warned that motorists with outstanding fines may be blocked from accessing services on its digital platforms, including vehicle inspection, logbook applications, and ownership transfers.
The High Court’s intervention now pauses the rollout of the system, setting the stage for a legal battle that could shape the future of technology-driven traffic enforcement in Kenya.
