KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ugandan government has once again extended the suspension of its automated Express Penalty Scheme (EPS Auto) and new speed limit regulations. The move aims to allow for continued review of the contentious traffic laws that nearly prompted a nationwide strike by motorists.
Susan Kataike, spokesperson for the Ministry of Works and Transport, stated Tuesday that the review of the traffic regulations is ongoing, and therefore, the suspension of the new traffic law’s implementation remains in effect.
“The Ministry of Works and Transport wishes to update the general public and all road users that the review process of the Express Penalty System and the related speed regulation framework is still ongoing, following the temporary suspension of the implementation that was announced on June 12, 2025,” Kataike said.
Last month, the government began enforcing two statutory instruments: The Traffic and Road Safety (Express Penalty Scheme for Road Offenders) Regulations, 2024 (Statutory Instrument No. 56 of 2024), and the Road Safety (Prescription of Speed Limits) Regulations. Motorists protested the new fines, which included increases as high as 600,000 Ugandan shillings (approximately $160 USD) for speeding, and a reduced payment period from 28 days to 72 hours. A 50% surcharge was also imposed for failing to pay EPS tickets within three days. The backlash included threats of a strike.
On June 12, the government initially suspended the regulations for a month to engage stakeholders and resolve differences. President Museveni had also criticized the use of CCTV cameras, installed for security, in the collection of traffic fines.
Kataike said that technical and legal committees, formed after several meetings with concerned parties, have identified gaps in areas such as speed limits, payment timelines, different fees and surcharges.
“The recommendations will be shared with the ministry’s top leadership and thereafter tabled before Cabinet before consideration for sensitisation and roll out,” she explained, adding that the public would be informed of the review outcomes.
Last year, the minister of Works and Transport also issued the Traffic and Road Safety (Prescription of Speed Limits) Regulations, which lowered speed limits for vehicles, particularly those frequently involved in road accidents. Notably, the speed limit for all vehicle categories on urban roads was reduced to 30 km/hr from 50 km/hr.
