NTSA puts unscrupulous automobile dealers on notice

ELDORET, KENYA:  The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has warned that it will deregister automobile dealers who flout set rules for the sale of protective gear for motorcycles and con their clients.
John Muya, the Safety Director at NTSA said the sale of a motorbike must be complemented by two helmets and two reflector jackets for the passenger and the rider to enhance road safety.
"It is sad that these dealers know it is a legal requirement for them to give two helmets and reflector jackets to the buyers but fail to do so because most of the clients are unaware of the provision. This cannot be allowed to continue because it is a major contributor to road carnage," said Muya.
Speaking during an open forum with motorists in Eldoret together with MPs constituting the Parliamentary Committee on Implementation of the transport regulations, Muya said the dealers need to play their role in protecting lives to help reduce road accidents or be banned from the trade.
The Parliamentary Committee on Implementation of Transport regulations led by MPs David Gikaria (Nakuru East), Samuel Moroto (Kapenguria) and Ferdinand Wanyonyi (Kwanza) engaged the motorists on among other issues complaints of harassment from public authorities.
Gikaria said motorbike bodaboda operators should consider working in Savings Credit and Cooperative Societies (Saccos) to avoid exploitation from automobile dealers and other authorities.
"It is wise you operate in Saccos to easily meet set regulations and pursue your rights as motorists. Currently the industry is clouded with many irregularities like lack of licenses, insurance covers and untrained riders who cannot be traced or helped after getting involved in accidents," Gikaria said.
NTSA  has tightened rules for motorists through the recent Regulations of 2015 aimed at reducing bodaboda related accidents where offenders will have to part with as much as Sh20, 000 fines or face a jail term not exceeding six months.
In the regulations, motorbike riders are also required to have Passenger Service Vehicle (PSV) insurance policy, a valid driving license and minimum third-party insurance for the automobile.