New rules for driving schools raise a storm
Kenya Driving Schools Association officials Philip Kariuki (left) Sam Nyakado and John Mwatha addressing journalists in Nakuru on August 7, 2016. They accused the National Transport and Safety Authority of ignoring a court order barring it from implementing a new curriculum for driving schools. PHOTO | SULEIMAN MBATIAH | NATION MEDIA GROUP
What you need to know:
- A week ago, the High Court in Nakuru issued orders restricting the NTSA from implementing the rules until the matter is heard and determined.
- Kenya National Driving School Association has already challenged the introduction of new rules in court.
- The new recommendations require driving schools to have vehicles that are not more than eight years old.
A fresh dispute has erupted between owners of driving schools and the National Transport and Safety Authority over proposed rules meant to govern the institutions.
The proprietors on Saturday threatened to sue the NTSA for contempt, claiming it was pushing for the implementation of the regulations despite the existence of a court order barring it from doing so.
A week ago, the High Court in Nakuru issued orders restricting the NTSA from implementing the rules until the matter is heard and determined.
Officials of the Kenya National Driving School Association, led by their chairman John Mwatha, accused the NTSA of plotting to “kill” their industry after the agency formulated a new curriculum for driving schools.
NEW REGULATIONS
“The main stakeholders were not involved in the formulation of the new regulations, which, if effected, will infringe on our business rights. We will commence contempt of court proceedings against the NTSA if it disregards the court orders,” said Mr Mwatha.
The association has already challenged the rules in court.
Mr Mwatha complained that some of the recommendations are unrealistic, citing one requiring them to have vehicles that are not over eight years old.
At the same time, Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia has set up a four-member transport and safety committee in each of the following counties: Taita-Taveta, Kakamega, Bungoma, Kiambu, Laikipia, Nakuru, Kajiado, Nairobi, Kisii, Mombasa, Kericho, Machakos, Baringo and Uasin Gishu.
Each committee is required to prepare and submit to the authority audit reports on the safety, reliability and efficiency of the road transport system within the county.
