Lira-Amolatar taxi association welcomes suspension of auto express penalty scheme

13 June 2025, 3:58 pm

By Violet Sanyu

The Director of the Lira-Amolatar Taxi Drivers’ Association, Mr. Okao Kizito, has welcomed the suspension of the recently launched Auto Express Penalty Scheme (EPS), applauding the government’s responsiveness to public outcry and calling for constructive dialogue between drivers and the Ministry of Works and Transport.

In a dramatic turn of events, Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport announced the immediate suspension of the penalty scheme less than a week after its rollout.

The move follows widespread public criticism and legal concerns that questioned the policy’s legitimacy and implementation.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Mr. Okao Kizito said the decision to halt the scheme was timely and necessary. He confirmed that officials from the Traffic Department under the Ministry of Works and Transport are scheduled to conduct a nationwide sensitization exercise on the policy. According to Okao, the team is expected to visit Lira on June 17th.

At a recent press briefing, Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, admitted that the EPS policy did not meet the required legal and operational standards. He emphasized that the scheme will remain suspended until all technical issues are addressed and thorough public awareness is conducted.