Taxi drivers in Kampala, under their Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOF), have threatened to go on strike starting next week if the Auto Express Penalty System (EPS) system suspended.
 The regulations stipulate steep fines of up to Shs 600,000 for motorists who exceed the speed limit on certain highways. In addition, motorists are slapped a surcharge of 50% if the fine is not paid within three days.
The regulations have already attracted uproar on social media but the authorities have maintained that they will be implemented.
Today, the drivers under UTOF met with officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport to demand further consultation on the new laws. The drivers heavily criticized the government over the hefty fines imposed on city routes, claiming they are intended to hinder their work.
Winstone Katushabe, a commissioner in the ministry, explained to the drivers that the government’s aim is not to obstruct their work but to combat accidents. He confirmed that driver training is ongoing and police will be consulted on the penalties.
However, the meeting did not satisfy the drivers, who walked out after Katushabe stated that only the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Wamala, has the authority to suspend the new rules.
