The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has withdrawn its earlier notice announcing the rollout of the Instant Fines Management System, in a move that signals growing pressure over the controversial traffic enforcement programme.
In a statement issued Friday, March 27, the authority said the decision was informed by the need to enhance public awareness and clarify procedures surrounding minor traffic offences before fully implementing the system.
“The National Transport and Safety Authority wishes to inform the public of the withdrawal of the public notice announcing the go live of the instant fines issued on 9th March, 2026,” the statement reads.
The system, unveiled earlier this month, was designed to automatically detect traffic violations using smart cameras and issue fines to motorists via SMS, with penalties payable within seven days.
However, the rollout quickly ran into headwinds, including legal challenges and widespread criticism from motorists, civil society groups and transport operators.
The High Court of Kenya had already intervened, issuing conservatory orders suspending the implementation of the system pending the hearing of a petition challenging its legality.
Critics argue the automated system, capable of issuing penalties without human intervention, could violate motorists’ right to a fair hearing, with concerns also raised over lack of public participation and clarity in enforcement procedures.
NTSA had defended the initiative as a key reform aimed at improving road safety, reducing corruption linked to manual traffic enforcement, and easing pressure on courts by allowing instant settlement of minor offences.
The withdrawal now throws the future of the system into uncertainty, even as the court process continues and stakeholders push for broader consultations before any reintroduction.
