A Nairobi court has fined Kibra Member of Parliament driver Sh100,000 for dangerous overtaking, following a viral road altercation involving CNN journalist Larry Madowo.
George Oduor, the MP’s driver, appeared before Milimani Principal Magistrate Rose Ndombi and admitted to the charges.
Oduor pleaded for leniency, telling the court that his actions were a mistake that would not be repeated.
“I am sorry, Your Honour. I was in a hurry to drop someone off at the airport, and I will not repeat the offence,” Oduor said.
He was charged with dangerous overtaking contrary to Rule 73(4) as read with Rule 99 of the Traffic Rules, Cap 403 Laws of Kenya.
The incident, which occurred on October 9, 2025, along Oloitoktok Road in Nairobi, drew widespread criticism after a 26-second video of the confrontation went viral on social media.
In the clip, the Kibra MP and his driver are seen using the wrong side of the road before blocking traffic. When confronted by Madowo, the two mockingly told him to “take the video to President William Ruto.”
Although Madowo later admitted that he did not recognise the MP during the exchange, Kenyans online quickly identified the legislator sparking public outrage over what many described as arrogance and abuse of privilege.
The incident reignited debate on VIP impunity on Kenyan roads, with many calling for equal enforcement of traffic laws regardless of social status.
In response, the National Police Service (NPS) warned against obstruction of traffic by individuals claiming VIP status.
“Only emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines, and the motorcades of the President and Deputy President are permitted to obstruct traffic,” said Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri.
Traffic Police Commandant Fredrick Ochieng’ echoed the warning, saying police would take firm action against violators.
“We have also noted cases of fake diplomatic plates being used to evade traffic laws. Such cases are under active investigation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Madowo humorously responded to the altercation online, saying he would “indeed deliver the video to President Ruto” once he secured a flash drive to store it.
