Insiders are not surprised the nationwide rollout of AARTO to 69 metros and municipalities has been pushed out yet again for 2025. As a result, the Department of Transport had no other choice but to announce a delay to AARTO implementation, which was slated for less than three weeks’ from now, on 1 December 2025.
Upon closer inspection, the department assessed that the ‘state of readiness’ in numerous municipalities was simply not there. Among the deficiencies noted were, “finalisation of law enforcement and back-office personnel.” In turn, after yet another delay, critics doubt whether AARTO will ever be ready …
AARTO IS A NO GO FOR 2025
The controversial AARTO system was first implemented in parts of Gauteng 17 years’ ago, back in 2008. However, since then, the Automobile Association of SA says there’s only limited evidence it has improved road safety. Likewise, the City of Cape Town and surrounding municipalities have made it clear they want no part of AARTO.
Just last week, the Road Traffic Infringement Agency’s Monde Mkalipi acknowledged documents submitted from Western Cape authorities. The matter has since been handed over to the Portfolio Committee on Transport chairperson, MP Selelo Selamolela (ANC). Western Cape authorities argue it has a choice to stick with existing by-laws or opt for AARTO. If denied, the matter will undoubtedly proceed to court, where it will be tied up for several more months.
THIS IS THE REAL REASON
Therefore, insiders believe it is this submission that’s lead to the AARTO pushback for 2025. Because the concern is if Cape Town and the Western Cape are granted exemption from AARTO, that will open the door for other municipalities to do the same. Bringing the entire system, a bit like e-tolls, to its knees.
The concern is millions in traffic fine revenue will be lost to local municipalities if and when AARTO does go ahead. Nevertheless, the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy remains bullish on AARTO’s future: “A phased approach of implementation will still be maintained as initially envisaged. The department will soon publish the new proclamation with new staggered implementation dates from 1 July 2026 onwards.”
AARTO MALADMINISTRATION WARNING
However, critics of the AARTO system say it plainly focuses on revenue generation rather than genuine road-safety concerns. Likewise, the introduction of ‘electronic service’ of infringements presumes guilt before innocent. And there’s only a centralised nine-member tribunal to hear appeals. And such matters should rather be heard by a local magistrate’s court to eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy. In turn, this could leave AARTO susceptible to chronic inefficiency, error, maladministration and fraud.
But what do you think? Are you happy that AARTO has been put on ice for now? Or do you think the driver demerit system will improve driving standard in South Africa?
