Nekundi pushes to decriminalise some traffic offences

Works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi has directed the newly inaugurated Transportation Commission of Namibia to prioritise the decriminalisation of minor traffic offences, such as expired documentation, and tighten regulation of driving schools within the next six months — reforms he says are long overdue to restore discipline, professionalism and fairness on Namibia’s roads.Speaking at the official inauguration of the commission in Windhoek on Monday, Nekundi said the current legal framework still classifies minor road infringements — such as vehicle overloading or expired documentation — as criminal offences, an outdated practice that no longer serves the public interest.“We cannot have criminal offences under normal traffic regulations. Overloading or carrying three cows in a trailer being a criminal offence does not make sense,” Nekundi said. “I expect this new commission to ensure the decriminalisation process is implemented without delay.”He said a draft framework for the reform has already been developed, and instructed the commission to oversee its full implementation within their six-month term.“My colleagues have already drafted the framework. You must play your part to ensure that by the end of this year, we have made tangible progress,” Nekundi said firmly.New commission takes officeThe new members of the Transportation Commission, appointed on a six-month interim basis, are Loini Shikale (chairperson), Joe Shipepe, Johannes Thikusho and Dr Helvi Petrus.Congratulating the appointees, Nekundi emphasised that their tenure would be judged on delivery, not promises.“You are entrusted with duties that demand unwavering dedication and measurable results. The ministry expects visible progress on key reforms before your six months are over,” he said.Driving schools under scrutinyNekundi also raised concern about the proliferation of unregulated driving schools, warning that poor instruction standards are producing undisciplined drivers.“We have quite a number of driving schools in this country, and there is nothing wrong with that. But to instruct others, you must first be qualified,” he stressed. “You cannot teach someone how to drive when you yourself jump red traffic lights.”He announced that the ministry, through the commission, will introduce a national qualification and licensing framework for driving instructors to ensure all trainers are certified, registered and periodically renewed.“Those who train others must be qualified and registered — their own conduct must reflect the discipline we expect on our roads,” he said, warning that the era of “anyone opening a driving school” is coming to an end.Professionalising public transportNekundi further instructed the commission to professionalise the public transport sector, urging taxi and bus operators to formalise their businesses.“If you are driving a taxi, you must have a formal contract. You must be part of a registered entity — whether a sole trader or a company — and comply with Social Security and labour laws,” he said.He said formalisation would enhance accountability, safety and social protection for both drivers and passengers.Licensing and safety reformsThe minister also called for urgent reform of the driver licensing process, saying delays of several months are unacceptable.“We cannot have people waiting three or six months for a licence. That must change. The process should not take more than four or five days,” he said.Nekundi also raised concerns about driver fitness, insisting that only medically fit individuals should be allowed to operate vehicles.“You cannot have someone with epilepsy driving a cargo truck. Operators must conduct regular medical checks — safety must come first,” he said.Strong governance mandateReminding the new board of their obligations under the Road Traffic and Transport Act (1999) and the Public Enterprise Governance Act (2019), Nekundi urged transparency, integrity and accountability in all decisions.“The Transportation Commission bears the weighty responsibility of ensuring safe, efficient and sustainable transport systems that drive Namibia’s economic growth,” he said.He added that the commission’s performance will determine the pace of long-term reform.“Your performance will determine whether Namibia achieves the modern, disciplined and fair transport system our people deserve,” Nekundi concluded.

Nekundi pushes to decriminalise some traffic offences

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-10-16

Please login to leave a comment

Nekundi pushes to decriminalise some traffic offences

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-10-16

Please login to leave a comment

Login