The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has raised alarm over an emerging trend of politicians vandalising road signs across the country, particularly in areas scheduled to hold by-elections in November.
In a statement on Monday, September 8, KeNHA cautioned against defacing road signs with campaign posters and other materials in actions which pose safety risks to motorists.
The authority specifically flagged the issue in roads leading to Baringo and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties, where posters were spotted plastered directly over directional and warning signs.
“It has come to the attention of the Authority that road signs have been defaced with posters, including those of campaigning candidates in areas scheduled for by-elections,” KeNHA said.
In one instance, a poster of a UDA candidate seeking the Baringo Senatorial seat was found covering a crucial junction sign, while another poster blocked a directional sign leading to Tot in Elgeyo-Marakwet.
"The public is cautioned against this act, as it proves to be destructive to motorists plying the affected routes, which could lead to road incidents and possible loss of lives," KeNHA added.
The by-elections, announced by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), are set to take place in several electoral areas, including the Baringo Senate seat and six National Assembly constituencies – Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja.
Part of the reason KeNHA raised concern was because of intensified political activity, especially in the Baringo area, as the battle to succeed William Cheptumo, who passed away in February 2025.
As a result, candidates have been racing to increase visibility through posters, which have been plastered in unconventional areas, including key road signs.
Individuals and politicians alike found defacing road signs runs the risk of getting fined Ksh85,000 for every incident or imprisonment or both, according to KeNHA.
There are several legal provisions which outlaw acts such as defacing a road sign. Under the Traffic Act, road signs are part of road infrastructure and are considered road furniture. Under sections 55 and 102 of the act, plastering posters on road signs is considered interference with lawful road use, which can attract fines and/or imprisonment.
Members of the public have been urged to take an active role in protecting road infrastructure by reporting acts of defacing or vandalism to a KeNHA office or the nearest police station.
