Why Maraga Taskforce Wants Traffic Police Unit Restructured

The National Taskforce on Improvement of the Terms and Conditions of Service for Kenya's National Police Service, Prisons Service and Youth Service has proposed a significant restructuring of the Traffic Police Unit. Led by former Chief Justice David Maraga, the taskforce believes the current unit should be transformed into a modern Traffic Management Unit, heavily reliant on technology for traffic control and road offence detection.

The report, released on Monday, highlights widespread public concerns over corruption at police roadblocks, which have become infamous as "corruption points" where motorists are reportedly forced to make illegal payments. In response, the taskforce recommends abolishing traditional police roadblocks and replacing them with mobile patrol units.

This new system would emphasize technology, with a focus on detecting traffic violations and processing fines without the need for cash. The goal is to minimize opportunities for corruption by limiting direct interactions between motorists and traffic officers. The taskforce also calls for the reduction of the Traffic Police Unit's size, enhanced training, and the integration of technology to boost efficiency.

These recommendations are part of a broader effort to tackle corruption within the National Police Service. The taskforce found that corruption is deeply entrenched in various aspects of the service, including recruitment, transfers, deployments, promotions, and procurement. The restructuring aims to modernize traffic management, enhance accountability, and reduce corruption risks.