Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga on AARTO Act: Road to Safer Streets

Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, recently updated the media on the progress of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act at Umjantshi House, Braamfontein.

AARTO Act – A Constitutional Solution to Road Carnage

The AARTO Act, aimed at reducing road accidents by enhancing driver behavior, was recently confirmed to be constitutional by the Constitutional Court ruling on July 12, 2023. The ruling allowed the national government to establish and enforce uniform norms and standards throughout the country, avoiding a fragmented system of road traffic law enforcement, which could lead to chaos and ineffectiveness.

Complementing Other Initiatives

Chikunga emphasized the importance of AARTO in altering driver behavior and serving as a complement to other initiatives such as traffic policing, regulating driving schools, and introducing National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 6 training for traffic law enforcement officers.

Nationwide Implementation in Progress

After a 25-year waiting period and pilot projects in Johannesburg and Tshwane, the Court’s judgment has paved the way for AARTO’s nationwide implementation. Chikunga expressed confidence in the Act’s rollout across the country, targeting July 1, 2024, for completion. Already, 43 service outlets have been established in various provinces.

Preparedness for AARTO

To prepare for AARTO’s implementation, Chikunga noted that the adjudication process and electronic service of infringements have been completed, with the latter awaiting proclamation by the President. Recommendations for appointing a Tribunal and nationwide implementation of the Act have also been finalized.

Critical Aspect – Points Demerit System

The points demerit system, a critical aspect of the AARTO Act, aims to serve as a deterrent for reckless driving behavior. Chikunga stated that the nationwide rollout of AARTO would be proclaimed in 69 municipalities by the end of the calendar year, with the remaining municipalities implementing the Act by July 1, 2024.

Combating Criminality on Roads

Criminality and recent incidents of truck torching have impacted the safety and economy of South Africa’s roads. Chikunga expressed grave concern over these acts of “economic sabotage” and called for the harshest penalties for those involved. She also urged law enforcement authorities, road users, and communities to work together in combating this criminality, ensuring the safety and economic vitality of the country’s road networks.

In conclusion, Sindisiwe Chikunga’s briefing on the AARTO Act highlighted the importance of a unified approach to road traffic law enforcement and the significance of addressing both driver behavior and criminality. The nationwide implementation of AARTO and further measures will play a vital role in ensuring safer roads and the continued growth of South Africa’s economy.