Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport has suspended its newly introduced automated Express Penalty System (EPS Auto), bowing to mounting public pressure over what many drivers described as unfair and excessive enforcement.
In a brief statement posted Wednesday night on the ministry’s official X account (formerly Twitter), Minister of Works and Transport Gen. Katumba Wamala said the system would be paused “effective midnight tonight.”
“The implementation of automated Express Penalty System [EPS Auto] will be temporarily suspended following a comprehensive review,” the statement read.
A longer explanation is expected Thursday.
“The Hon. Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, will issue a detailed statement tomorrow outlining the way forward,” it continued.
Motorists are still expected to follow the rules. “In the meantime, we urge all road users to continue driving responsibly and observing traffic rules,” the ministry added.
The EPS Auto system, introduced just two weeks ago, uses automated cameras to detect traffic violations — including speeding and running red lights — and issues fines based on number plate recognition technology. In some cases, the penalties reached up to 20 percent of a vehicle’s value.
The government had pitched the system as a modern step toward reducing road accidents and improving safety. But on the streets, it was a different story.
Drivers pushed back almost immediately. Many said the system was harsh, with steep fines for what they viewed as minor violations. Others complained they weren’t given clear notice or a fair chance to contest the penalties.
Transport operators, in particular, voiced their frustration, arguing that the rollout had been too abrupt and lacked transparency.
Despite the suspension, the ministry has not ruled out reintroducing the system in the future. Gen. Wamala, in his post, noted that the review is ongoing and promised a detailed update on the next steps.
Until then, the cameras stay — but the penalties don’t. For now.
