Kampala, Uganda: Government has temporarily suspended the automated Express Penalty System (EPS Auto) following a nationwide outcry among taxi drivers and private motorists over the ‘harsh’ fines imposed on them. The system had been operational for less than 10 days.
“The implementation of the automated Express Penalty System (EPS Auto) will be temporarily suspended, effective midnight tonight, to facilitate a comprehensive review of its performance and operational procedures,” the statement, posted via @GovUganda’s official X account, read on Wednesday evening.
The announcement came just hours after a tense meeting between officials from the Transport Ministry and taxi operators ended in a walkout and threats to strike by the taxi drivers.
Led by leaders from the Federation of Uganda Taxi Operators, the drivers rejected explanations from the Commissioner for Transport Regulation and Safety, Mr Katushabe Winston, who insisted only Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala could suspend the EPS Auto system.
Katushabe later confirmed during a post-meeting press briefing that the Ministry had taken note of complaints from taxi operators and the general public, among which included excessive fines, technical glitches, confusing road signage, and the lack of adequate public sensitization.
“Any policy or regulation is subject to review. We’ve received genuine concerns not only from taxi drivers but from the wider public,” said Katushabe earlier in the afternoon, adding, “We are compiling a report for the Hon. Minister, who will decide on the next course of action.”
The official statement from the government also confirmed that Works Minister, Gen. Katumba Wamala, is expected to address the country tomorrow (Thursday), outlining reforms and the government’s long-term approach to traffic enforcement and road safety.
“The Hon. Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, will deliver an official statement tomorrow detailing the way forward. We urge all motorists to continue driving responsibly and to strictly adhere to traffic regulations during this period,” the statement concluded.
Motorists had widely criticized the system for issuing steep fines, ranging from penalties for minor infractions like crossing stop lines to overspeeding, even in cases where drivers claimed road signage was unclear or misleading.
The decision to suspend the Auto EPS comes as a relief to taxi operators had declared a nationwide strike effective Monday, June 16, if the system was not suspended, warning they would mobilize other motorists to join them in what was shaping into a larger wave of civil disobedience.
With the temporary suspension now in place, drivers will await the minister’s address to determine whether their broader concerns will be fully addressed or if further action will still be necessary.
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