By Baraka Simba 
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has faced criticism over its decision to remove number plates from vehicles found to be unroadworthy during the ongoing nationwide road safety enforcement operation.
Mass Mobility Operators Association boss Wilfred Bosire questioned the approach on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, arguing that the authority should explore alternative disciplinary measures that directly target traffic offenders without unnecessarily inconveniencing vehicle owners.
Speaking during a panel discussion on KBC, Bosire expressed concern over cases where number plates were allegedly removed from brand-new vehicles that had no apparent mechanical defects.
He questioned why NTSA would target vehicle number plates instead of holding individual drivers accountable for traffic violations.
“I wonder why we can pluck a number plate from a vehicle that is brand new and maybe has no issue, rather than getting the black number plate off. What can they do to have the driver punished politely and maintain discipline?” he posed.
Bosire maintained that enforcement measures should focus on promoting responsible driving and improving discipline among motorists rather than relying solely on punitive actions.
He also raised concerns about the role of the judicial system and the high penalties imposed on traffic offenders, arguing that exorbitant fines could encourage corruption and bribery during enforcement.
“If the fines are exorbitant, what happens? We bargain by giving out bribes. If you compromise a person by giving a bribe, then you get familiarity, knowing each other. So then we get compromises in the implementation,” he explained.
The transport sector official further warned that road accidents could increase during the December festive season due to heightened movement between urban centres and rural areas as families travel for holidays.
He noted that some motorists hire vehicles during the festive period and may engage in reckless driving because they are not personally responsible for the vehicles they operate.
Bosire’s remarks come as NTSA intensifies its nationwide road safety crackdown in collaboration with police officers and other security agencies following a recent increase in road accidents.
The multi-agency operation targets motorists driving under the influence of alcohol, those operating vehicles with expired driving licences or inspection stickers, and drivers using vehicles without valid insurance.
NTSA has also prioritised night-time inspections, citing evening and late-night hours as some of the most dangerous periods for road users.
The enforcement exercise is being conducted under the Msimu Bila Ajali Usalama Barabarani campaign, which involves coordinated day and night patrols along major highways and other busy roads.
The campaign seeks to reduce road accidents, improve compliance with traffic regulations and promote responsible behaviour among motorists ahead of the busy festive season.
Eldoret Leo 
Robert Mutasi