Members of Parliament in Rwanda have urged caution over the rollout of a new points-based system for traffic offences. They called for a transitional period to help drivers understand the rules before penalties take effect.
Lawmakers raised the concerns on January 5, 2026, as they reviewed a draft law amending regulations on road use. A key proposal in the draft introduces a technology-driven system that deducts points from drivers who commit traffic violations.
Lawmakers Raise Implementation Concerns
MP Mukabalisa Germaine questioned how the system would operate in practice. She asked whether penalties would remain consistent and whether drivers could face multiple penalties for the same offence.
Although she supported the idea, she stressed the need for careful implementation. She also noted that the system could help insurance companies assess driver behaviour more accurately.
Meanwhile, MP Nizeyimana Pie proposed a transition period. He suggested a three-month training phase to allow drivers to understand the system without facing immediate penalties. According to him, this approach would encourage compliance and reduce confusion.
Accountability and Fairness Emphasised
MP Nyirabazayire highlighted the need for fairness. He said the system must ensure that penalties apply to the driver who committed the offence rather than the vehicle owner.
“Points should be deducted from the record of the driver responsible for the violation,” he said. “The system must identify the correct person.”
In addition, MP Mukabunani Christine asked for clarity on how authorities would determine point deductions and handle license suspension or revocation. MP Ngiruwosanga also urged the government to integrate the system with existing infrastructure to avoid unfair penalties.
Government Explains How the System Will Work
The Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security Committee, Amb. Tumukunde Hope Gasatura, explained that the system is new. He said a ministerial decree will provide further operational details.
Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore said the goal is to promote responsible driving, not punishment. He explained that each driver will start the year with 15 points. The system will deduct points automatically based on violations.
If a driver’s points fall below one, authorities will suspend the license temporarily. The driver can regain it after restoring sufficient points.
How Points Will Be Deducted
The draft law groups offences by severity. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident will lose six points. Failing to use a speed governor will result in a five-point deduction.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will cost four points. Speeding, driving without a license and ignoring traffic signals will each lead to a three-point deduction.
Less serious offences, such as driving an uninsured vehicle or using a mobile phone while driving, will result in a two-point deduction.
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