The Uganda Express Penalty System has sparked nationwide concern, prompting Joel Ssenyonyi to demand immediate action. In a letter to the transport ministry, the opposition leader called for a full review of the system’s rollout.
EPS Enforcement Sparks Complaints
Ssenyonyi acknowledged the system’s goal of promoting road safety. However, he said the enforcement is flawed and overly punitive. Drivers across Uganda have shared frustrations, especially after being fined multiple times without explanation.
Motorists complain about unclear speed limits and penalties they can’t verify. On Kampala’s Northern Bypass, low-speed enforcement exists, yet signage is either missing or inconsistent. Drivers say this confusion leads to accidental violations.
Ssenyonyi raised a key safety concern. He warned that the low-speed rules expose drivers to attacks in crime-prone zones. These zones include areas where criminals ambush slow-moving vehicles.
He added that motorists with pending EPS fines are unable to renew licenses or travel abroad. In many cases, drivers are unaware of the violations or how to appeal. This lack of clarity, he said, damages public trust in the system.
Transparency and Procurement Under Fire
Ssenyonyi also challenged how the EPS was implemented. He claimed the contractor, Joint Stock Company-Global Security, was selected through a flawed process. The company takes 80% of the fine revenue, while only 20% goes to the government.
The opposition leader said the company has no known experience with traffic enforcement. He pointed to a minority report adopted by Parliament. The report exposed procurement irregularities, abuse of data, and ignored feasibility studies.
“Everything around this project is fishy,” Ssenyonyi said.
The report alleged the deal bypassed public-private partnership rules and favored private gain over national interest.
Government Responds to Public Pressure
The Ministry of Works and Transport issued a statement. It confirmed receiving feedback and promised a review. However, it said the EPS would remain active as the review continues.
Ssenyonyi urged the ministry to consult widely before moving forward. He called for fair, transparent, and educational enforcement, not one rooted in fear or confusion.
“Road safety must be just and respectful of citizens’ rights,” he added.
He emphasized that EPS, in its current form, punishes rather than protects. To regain public confidence, the system must be recalibrated with fairness and accountability at its core.
Ugandans now await clearer communication and meaningful changes. Without those, the Uganda Express Penalty System may remain controversial and distrusted.
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