Willis Otieno criticises proposed motor vehicle inspection levy, calls it a revenue grab
By Sharon Atieno, June 30, 2026Lawyer Willis Otieno has sharply criticised the government’s planned reintroduction of the motor vehicle inspection levy, terming the move an unjustifiable revenue collection scheme that will further burden already struggling Kenyans.
In a statement shared through his X account on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Willis argued that the proposed levy amounts to excessive taxation disguised as public service, saying motorists are already complying with multiple mandatory vehicle-related requirements imposed by the government.
Willis faults new levy proposal
“The attempt to reintroduce a motor vehicle inspection levy is nothing more than another unjustifiable revenue grab. Kenyans already meet strict vehicle import requirements, undertake mandatory inspections where applicable, and renew insurance every year,” Willis stated.
/X
He argued that introducing another compulsory levy without demonstrating a clear public benefit raises serious questions about the government’s approach to taxation and service delivery.
“Piling on yet another levy without a clear public benefit amounts to excessive taxation, not better service delivery,” he added.
The remarks add fresh pressure on the government as opposition continues to grow over the controversial inspection rules expected to affect millions of vehicle owners across the country.
NTSA forced to clarify after public backlash
The criticism comes barely days after the National Transport and Safety Authority was forced to issue a clarification following widespread public concern over the planned vehicle inspection regulations.
In a notice issued on Sunday, June 28, 2026, NTSA said some sections of the new rules would not be enforced immediately and directed traffic police officers not to enforce mandatory inspection requirements on private vehicle owners during routine road checks.
Under the proposed regulations, private vehicles older than four years would be subjected to annual inspections at a cost of Ksh2,000, including booking and inspection fees, a move critics say could generate billions annually for the government.
Matiang’i also demands suspension
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has also opposed the directive, demanding immediate suspension of the policy.
“Before imposing mandatory costs on citizens, government must publish the data, policy analysis, cost-benefit assessment and implementation plan that justify such a far-reaching decision,” Matiang’i said earlier.
The growing backlash now places the planned inspection levy at the centre of a widening debate over taxation, public accountability and whether road safety policies are increasingly becoming new avenues for state revenue collection.