Editorials

EDITORIAL: NTSA shouldn’t violate law

NTSA

A motorist takes an alcoblow test. FILE PHOTO | NMG

News that the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has acquired a new set of breathalysers, commonly known as Alcoblow, in the fight against drunk driving is encouraging.

This is because any attempt to curb wanton loss of lives on Kenya’s killer roads can only be positive. Drink-driving still stands out as one of the major causes of road carnage in the country that must be tackled head-on.

Unfortunately, the NTSA in acquiring the new gadgets does appear to be going against an Appeal court ruling that asked that the law be reviewed for a synchronised approach to the problem. The court’s finding was that use of the gadget does not reinforce the provisions of the Traffic Act as intended.

We find it unfathomable that an agency that seeks to enforce the law can attempt to act in breach of the same laws.

READ: NTSA acquires 50 more breathalysers despite ban

It can only be hoped that NTSA does not plan to start using the gadgets before the law is reviewed as directed by the court. Doing so would amount to reckless harassment of citizens and arresting people for crimes that cannot be successfully prosecuted in the courts.

The NTSA, which is reporting that drunk revellers are resorting more to use of taxis, should ensure that there are no hiccups to saving lives on the roads.

Increased use of taxis shows the deterrence is working, and therefore a good tool in saving lives that needs to be meticulously applied. Operating in violation of the law is not an option.