The National Assembly's Transport and Infrastructure Committee has advanced proposals to regulate vehicle towing fees and reinforce police accountability concerning impounded vehicles under the Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
During a session at Bunge Tower on August 4, chaired by Naivasha MP George Kariuki, the committee reviewed and adopted its report on the Bill ahead of its parliamentary debate. The Bill aims to amend the Traffic Act (Cap. 403) by defining clear limits on how long police can detain vehicles and motorcycles, and by introducing measures to protect motorists from excessive charges and potential negligence.
Key Proposals
- Capping Towing Charges: MPs highlighted concerns over inconsistent and inflated towing fees imposed on motorists. Bureti MP Komingoi Kibet suggested establishing a legal ceiling on these charges to prevent exploitation by police officers on the ground.
- Police Responsibility for Detained Vehicles: The Bill mandates officers in charge of police stations to ensure the safety of impounded vehicles and any valuables inside until investigations or court proceedings conclude.
- Limits on Detention Periods: Vehicles held as evidence where photographic or assessment reports suffice must be released within 48 hours. For investigations requiring the vehicle, detention cannot exceed 14 days.
The committee emphasized that these amendments are designed to safeguard motorists from undue deprivation of property and to enhance transparency and fairness in traffic law enforcement.
Following extensive stakeholder consultations, the committee has recommended that Parliament approve the Bill with the proposed amendments. Lawmakers are expected to finalize the schedule of changes before the legislation advances to further parliamentary stages.
If enacted, the revised Traffic Act will introduce stronger protections for drivers, regulate towing service costs, and hold law enforcement more accountable for vehicle custody.
