Motorists in Nyanza are breathing a sigh of relief following the suspension of mobile traffic courts as local politicians laud the move.
Nyando MP Fred Outa and his Kisumu Central counterpart, Ken Obura said the suspension was long overdue, arguing that the courts were used to extort money from motorists.
Outa said delays at the courts were making it difficult for traders to do business which was negatively impacting the economy.
"The suspension is good but they should be abolished altogether since they are of no good use to the people of Kenya," Outa said.
He said the traffic police used the courts to harass innocent motorists and pedestrians thereby abusing the intended purpose of the courts.
"The Government introduced the courts to reduce accidents, not to cause misery to the public," Outa said.
Obura claimed the highest number of mobile traffic courts was in Nyanza and that they were only used to fleece the locals.
"The mobile courts were meant to help us yet they have been turned into cash cows for a few individuals," alleged Obura.
Kisumu Matatu Owners Association Chairman Bob Andala said the mobile courts had affected their business.
"They imposed exorbitant fines and humiliated motorists; we are happy that they have been suspended," he said.
Andala said the mobile courts could impose fines of up to Sh30,000, much more than Magistrate Courts which usually fine petty traffic offenders Sh5,000.