Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has confirmed that Kenya’s Instant Traffic Fines Framework remains fully functional across the country despite ongoing court cases and public uncertainty about its enforcement.

The update was conveyed by Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin during the 38th National Council on the Administration of Justice meeting chaired by Chief Justice Martha Koome.

Continued Enforcement and Inter-Agency Collaboration

Kanja emphasized that the framework is implemented through a collaborative effort involving the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the National Police Service (NPS), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the Judiciary, under Sections 117 and 117A of the Traffic Act.

The National Police Service supports enforcement by securing evidence, facilitating investigations, and referring contested traffic offences to court alongside other justice sector agencies.

He also called for enhanced coordination between agencies to align the fines system with due process safeguards, aiming to strengthen the programme’s legal resilience and improve access to justice.

Addressing Public Concerns Amid Legal Challenges

Recent reports of motorists receiving instant traffic offence notices, including for speeding on major roads like the Thika Road–Safari Park corridor, have raised questions about the system’s application.

A petition filed in the Murang’a High Court challenges a 50 km/h speed limit near Nairobi-Embu Highway’s Makenji area, citing safety concerns over the sharp speed reduction. However, NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa clarified that court proceedings affect only the disputed speed limit zone and do not suspend the entire Instant Traffic Fines Framework.

Commitment to Professional Policing and Justice Sector Collaboration

Beyond traffic enforcement, IG Kanja reiterated the National Police Service’s dedication to professional, accountable, and people-centred policing through reforms, technology adoption, and stronger investigations.

He urged continued cooperation among the National Police Service, NTSA, Judiciary, and other justice institutions to ensure the fines system is implemented fairly, transparently, and in line with due process.