NTSA Wants Case on Instant Traffic Fines Dropped
In court filings, NTSA says the case is no longer relevant after it formally withdrew the rollout of the instant traffic fines system on March 27, 2026. The authority maintains that continuing with the petition would amount to an academic exercise and an unnecessary use of judicial time.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has moved to have a High Court case challenging its controversial Instant Fines Management System withdrawn, arguing that the matter has been overtaken by events.
In court filings, NTSA says the case is no longer relevant after it formally withdrew the rollout of the instant traffic fines system on March 27, 2026. The authority maintains that continuing with the petition would amount to an academic exercise and an unnecessary use of judicial time.
NTSA Director General Odhiambo Kondiwa told the court that the decision being challenged no longer exists, effectively rendering the dispute moot. He noted that there is currently no operational instant fines system and no enforcement is being undertaken under the framework.
The instant fines regime had been introduced as part of efforts to enhance road safety and improve efficiency in traffic enforcement through automated systems. However, its rollout was quickly met with legal resistance.
A petition filed by lobby group Sheria Mtaani alongside lawyer Shadrack Wambui challenged the legality of the system, arguing that it violated due process and the right to a fair hearing. The petitioners warned that allowing motorists to be fined instantly without court involvement could open the door to abuse and undermine constitutional protections.
