Ad Code

Judiciary to Deploy Mobile Traffic Courts Amid Rising Road Deaths, Koome Warns Against Bribery

Kenya’s Judiciary has announced plans to introduce mobile traffic courts as part of an intensified effort to curb the rising number of road accidents, especially during the festive season. 

The initiative aims to ensure swift handling of traffic cases and reinforce road safety enforcement.

Speaking on Monday, Chief Justice Martha Koome said that delays in prosecuting traffic violations often embolden offenders and undermine public confidence in the justice system. 

The new mobile courts will operate in areas where traffic offences occur, making it easier for suspects to access legal proceedings without unnecessary delays.

“We will deploy mobile traffic courts using both physical and digital platforms, working closely with other agencies. This will allow those charged to quickly consult their lawyers and ensure transparency,” Koome explained.

The Chief Justice also highlighted corruption among traffic enforcement officers as a key factor contributing to road accidents. 

She warned motorists against offering bribes, assuring that systems would be put in place to monitor officers and protect human rights. 

“Do not pay any bribe when arrested. There will be monitoring of human rights violations,” she stressed.

Speeding remains one of the most common and dangerous violations, particularly during the festive period when travel volumes increase. 

Koome urged drivers to exercise patience, reminding them that rushing does not change their destinations but can lead to fatal consequences. She emphasised the importance of obeying traffic regulations at all times to prevent loss of life.

The move comes amid alarming statistics on road carnage. According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), 4,458 people had died in road accidents by early December 2025, compared to 4,311 deaths over the same period in 2024. Pedestrians, motorcyclists, and passengers remain the most affected groups, with festive travel further escalating the risk.

As Chairperson of the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), Koome stressed that addressing road safety requires collaboration across multiple institutions. No single agency can tackle the problem alone. 

She called for closer coordination between the Judiciary, police, NTSA, prosecutors, and the public.

Authorities have already intensified enforcement with 24-hour patrols, roadside checks, alcoblow tests, and instant fines. 

The introduction of mobile traffic courts is expected to complement these measures, enhancing accountability and promoting a culture of compliance among road users.

Koome concluded by urging all Kenyans to prioritise safety during the festive season and to remain vigilant on the roads.

Post a Comment

0 Comments

'; (function() { var dsq = document.createElement('script'); dsq.type = 'text/javascript'; dsq.async = true; dsq.src = '//' + disqus_shortname + '.disqus.com/embed.js'; (document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0] || document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0]).appendChild(dsq); })();

Ad Code