Govt Halts Driving Agency Operations Amid Bus Driver Dispute

Operations at the Uganda Driving Standards Agency (UDSA) have been suspended by the Ministry of Works and Transport as investigations commence into the agency’s activities. This decision follows tense discussions with the United Bus Drivers Association (UBDA), who had threatened a nationwide strike.

The bus drivers were protesting what they termed as “increasing financial and administrative pressure” related to driver badge renewals, validity requirements, and the cost of mandatory refresher training. They argued that their salaries were insufficient to cover these recurring expenses.

A meeting, chaired by Commissioner for Transport Regulation and Safety Winstone Katushabe, resulted in an agreement to review the entire refresher training framework, including the process for recognizing authorized training companies. The ministry reiterated that driver badges themselves remain free of charge, with renewals to be handled online.

To mitigate immediate issues, the ministry announced a temporary arrangement for drivers with expired badges, requiring them to submit a list of affected individuals who have completed the necessary training. The UBDA had emphasized the need for affordable, practical training developed in consultation with professional drivers.

While the strike notice appears to have been defused by the dialogue, the ministry has requested drivers to submit a detailed document outlining their concerns and proposed solutions within a week. A follow-up meeting is scheduled, along with plans for quarterly discussions to foster ongoing dialogue and address sector-wide safety and operational issues.

The suspension of UDSA’s operations is a significant outcome, though details on the scope of the investigation and the duration of the suspension were not immediately provided.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377563/government-suspends-driving-standards-agency-operations-after-bus-drivers-fallout