Motorists who dispute traffic fines issued under the new National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) minor traffic fines system will have their cases heard by an independent tribunal under fresh reforms being spearheaded by the Kenya Law Reform Commission (KLRC).

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The tribunal is expected to serve as the main avenue for resolving disputes arising from minor traffic offences that would no longer be processed through the criminal justice system.

In a statement on Wednesday, June 24, KLRC revealed that it is providing technical assistance to NTSA in reviewing laws governing minor traffic offences and shifting them from criminal prosecution to an administrative enforcement framework.

Under the proposed changes, motorists found committing designated minor traffic infractions would no longer face arrest, prosecution or criminal proceedings in court.

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Instead, NTSA would administer penalties through a structured administrative process, similar to systems used in several other jurisdictions.

The law reform exercise will also identify and classify traffic offences that qualify for administrative action and determine the penalties applicable to each offence.

To address concerns about fairness and due process, KLRC said disputes arising from administrative penalties will be handled independently .

"To safeguard the right to a fair hearing under Article 50(1) of the Constitution, disputes arising from the imposition of administrative penalties will be determined by an independent tribunal," KLRC stated.

The reforms are expected to significantly reduce the number of minor traffic cases handled by courts, allowing judicial resources to be directed toward more serious offences.

According to KLRC, the changes are also intended to improve efficiency in enforcing traffic laws and ensure quicker resolution of minor offences.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke