Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Eli Zakour says the amendment of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Bill aims to divert from a penalty-driven system to a corrective approach.
The Minister made the statement as debate to implement a Fixed Penalty Warning System to allow motorists time to rectify defects in their vehicles began in the House of Representatives on Friday.
He noted: “At present, the existing legislative framework relies heavily on prosecution-based enforcement for a wide range of traffic offences.”
Minister Zakour said the legislation reflects a balanced approach that recognises not only the importance of road safety but also ensures efficiency and fairness in the administration of justice.
This system, he said, gives motorists warnings for 18 violations and allows them to rectify them within three to seven business days, depending on the violation. Upon satisfactory verification, the driver will be issued a warrant of compliance.
“That certificate serves as confirmation that the requirements of a fixed-penalty warning have been met and results in the driver or owner being discharged from any further liability and is thereby resolved without need for a fine, court proceedings, or further enforcement action.”
He said if there is failure to remedy the defect or report within the time frame, the Fixed Penalty Warning automatically converts into a Fixed Penalty Notice.
“In those circumstances, the driver-owner becomes liable to pay the prescribed fine, just as if the Fixed Penalty Notice had been issued in the first instance.”
Minister Zakour reminded the public that the Bill is aligned with international best practice and has produced measurable results in a number of countries.