The Road Freight Association (RFA) says it is “shocked and deeply concerned” about the suspension of Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) CEO Japh Chuwe, amid allegations of maladministration.
“This has a severe impact on the implementation of the highly controversial Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act (AARTO), which is scheduled to be implemented in July,” says RFA CEO Gavin Kelly.
“Whilst we welcome the uncovering of corruption, it would be irresponsible and reckless for government to proceed with the implementation of AARTO.
“The RFA has over the years expressed its concern and unease about AARTO and its susceptibility to fraud, corruption and money laundering. The RTIA’s latest announcement is confirmation of our worst fears.”
Once AARTO is implemented, the RTIA will be handling billions of rands, says Kelly.
“How can we now trust the entity – especially when the dishonesty and corruption is allegedly at the highest level in the agency?
“We already face corruption, extortion and intimidation at the hands of traffic police on a daily basis, and this latest development has highlighted how rampant dishonesty is in the public service, especially in the traffic law enforcement and management structures.
“These allegations have undermined what little faith we had in the RTIA. If the system is implemented, we envisage theft on a grand scale.”
Kelly says the RFA once again proposes that AARTO be shelved.
“The continuously amended system is about generating revenue and about road safety.
“Huge administrative resources will be required to implement and sustain an antiquated and cumbersome system, putting an additional burden on already-overburdened government authorities and the private sector.”
Kelly says the Road Traffic Management Corporation already costs motorists hundreds of millions of rands a year through the levy imposed on all eNatis transactions.