Motorists may soon see changes in how police handle their vehicles after a new Bill was introduced in Parliament.
Kathiani MP Robert Mbui has tabled the Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The Bill proposes when and how police officers can detain vehicles and motorcycles.
The Bill comes after many complaints from Kenyans who say their cars and bikes are held at police stations for long without proper reasons.
Under the Bill, a vehicle or a motorcycle may only be held by the police if it is directly connected to an offence, either as evidence in a trial or for purposes of investigation.
It also sets time limits. Where a vehicle is held as evidence and a photo or inspection report is enough, it should not be kept for more than 48 hours.
For investigations, the Bill proposes that a vehicle should not stay in police custody for more than 14 days.
The proposed law also puts the officer in charge of a police station on the spot to make sure vehicles are safe. This follows cases where cars have been damaged or parts stolen while being held.
However, the courts will still have power to decide on such matters. Judges can still give directions on detained vehicles when needed.
If passed, the piece of legislation could come as a major relief for many Kenyans who own vehicles and motorcycles in the country.