Annual inspection of cars over four years old. This is one of the changes contained in the new traffic regulations proposed in Kenya, published in the Official Gazette by the Minister of Transport, David Chirchir.
As required by law, citizens now have 14 days to express their views on the matter before the proposal goes to Parliament and becomes law.
However, this new requirement, which in practice affects 90% of vehicles in the country, has already sparked considerable controversy, even though it is part of the new rules needed to reduce accidents, which are a widespread scourge in the country. The aim is to strengthen the regulatory framework provided by the Highway Code and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Act. In addition to vehicle inspections, the draft regulation covers, for example, school transport safety and drink-driving. The new drink-driving rules introduce prescribed alcohol limits, allow the use of breathalysers and blood tests, and establish penalties for those who refuse to cooperate with the police. Chirchir said the proposals also aim to simplify inspections, instil a sense of individual and social responsibility, and increase road safety.
‘These rules are intended to reduce accidents and ensure that vehicles on our roads meet basic safety standards,’ Chirchir said.
What is certain is that many will face an additional expense each year, and that, as always, they will seek loopholes that will always play into the hands of those who make a living from loopholes in this country.