News
Drivers Face Mandatory Prison for Motor Manslaughter under New 2025 Road Traffic Act
Hardline legal reforms will introduce the offence of “Motor Manslaughter” to punish the most serious road traffic violations, authorities have confirmed. The legislative shift aims to crack down on high-risk drivers who demonstrate a “serious disregard” for the safety of others. Targeted behaviours include excessive speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and any acts of voluntary and gross negligence.
Tougher Sentences Proposed
Under the proposed amendment to the Road Traffic Act, those convicted of Motor Manslaughter face severe criminal penalties. The government is considering:
- Mandatory imprisonment for offenders.
- Long-term disqualification from driving.
- Compulsory rehabilitation programmes.
The move is designed to send a powerful deterrent signal and reinforce criminal liability for fatal accidents resulting from high-risk conduct.
Data Reveals Scale of Crisis
The reforms come in the wake of alarming police data. Between 1 January and 20 November 2025, the Commissioner of Police recorded numerous fatal accidents linked to illegal driving.
| Incident Type | Number of Fatal Accidents (2025) |
| Drug/Substance Impairment | 150 |
| Alcohol Impairment | 4 |
| Driving Without a Valid Licence | 4 |
All of these cases remain under active investigation.
Modernising Enforcement
Beyond the new manslaughter charge, authorities are tightening the net on offenders through technological and systemic updates.
The “Penalty Points” system has been partially in effect since 1 January, specifically targeting speeding and impaired driving.
Furthermore, the Ministry is working to modernise the driving licence system. New licences will feature QR codes and other advanced technological features to make the detection of fraudulent permits easier for law enforcement.
Source: Defi Media
