Northern Uganda Drivers Push for 50% Slash in Proposed EPS Traffic Fines

Drivers in Northern Uganda are calling on the Ministry of Works and Transport to cut proposed Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) traffic fines by 50%. They argue the penalties are too burdensome for low earners facing daily financial pressures.

The ministry is holding nationwide consultations on the fines before presenting them to Cabinet and Parliament. The previously suspended EPS imposed 10 currency points—Shs200,000—for offenses like running red lights or speeding, but it was paused due to public backlash.

Local drivers shared their concerns at Gulu Main Taxi Park. Taxi driver Gody Odong called the fines unrealistic, suggesting a drop to Shs50,000 and reducing the 50% surcharge to 10%. Silver Okori, a former Uganda National Roads Authority driver, explained that pressure from bosses and passengers often forces speeding to meet tight schedules and avoid job loss.

Road safety experts counter that higher fines are essential to tackle reckless driving. Consultant Prosper Mubangizi noted a rise in crashes from speeding, with 40% of victims being powerless passengers or pedestrians, contributing to Uganda’s poor global road safety ranking.

Ministry policy analyst Robert Kisakye emphasized incorporating public input to ensure acceptance, while warning that repeat offenders could face up to 24 months’ license suspension.

Uganda’s road fatalities hit 5,383 in 2025 per the police crime report, up 4.7% from 5,144 in 2024. Motorcyclists and passengers made up over half the deaths, with serious injuries climbing 8.4% to 18,444 and minor ones to 3,668.

Source: Daily Monitor