Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Tuesday issued a directive halting the issuance of short-term Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licenses.
In a press conference, the Cabinet Secretary also ordered the National Transport & Safety Authority (NTSA) to cease issuance of PSV operator routes with immediate effect.
According to the CS, the suspension of the issuance of short-term PSV licenses will remain in place until a comprehensive review of all existing routes issued to PSVs operators is completed.
With the new directive, new routes will only be issued after the operator is vetted by NTSA.
"I have directed NTSA to immediately cease issuance of licenses for PSV operators, review all existing operator routes and only issue licenses upon vetting of the operators,” stated Murkomen
The Cabinet Secretary maintained that human behaviour was the main cause of accidents in the country and there was a need for Kenyans to exercise caution on the road.
Besides the suspension of the licenses, the CS also suspended speed limiter operators, responsible for fitting speed governors in PSVs, whose performance is below par based on NTSA reviews until the review is completed.
However, he elaborated that the suspended operators will be required to ensure optimal performance of governors already installed in PSVs operating aross the country.
In addition to the directives, Murkomen has also appealed to the Judiciary to develop new stringent measures for drivers found culpable of flouting traffic rules.
“I would like those drivers charged with murder, if they survive that's how serious this matter is,” stated Murkomen.
Moreover, the CS explained that any PSV operators whose drivers worked more than the stipulated time of eight hours would have their licenses revoked.
Further, the CS ordered that any excess passengers, drivers and conductors will be charged in court if found violating the traffic rules.
In his address, Murkomen also revealed that the vehicle which was involved in an accident in Kericho County had excess passengers and was not registered to operate as a PSV.
