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KAMPALA, UGANDA — The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced plans to launch extensive public consultations aimed at reviewing the Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) for traffic violations. This follows the suspension of the recently introduced automated traffic fine system, which was met with widespread resistance due to poor public sensitization.

Allan Ssempebwa, a senior communications officer at the ministry, acknowledged that the system was rolled out prematurely in June without adequate explanation or stakeholder engagement. “We underestimated the importance of public awareness. When the EPS auto system was launched on June 6, we assumed Ugandans would understand and comply, but the backlash showed otherwise,” he said during the National Public Relations Symposium in Kampala.

The symposium, co-sponsored by NMG-Uganda, highlighted the critical role of communication in public policy. NMG-Uganda’s Managing Director, Susan Nsibirwa, urged communicators to prioritize transparency—even when sharing difficult news—as a way of building public trust and combating misinformation.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, represented by State Minister Esther Anyakun, stressed the power of communication in shaping behavior and policy. She also noted that her office had received the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) Draft Bill and is committed to supporting its passage into law.

The suspended automated EPS system used cameras to detect traffic violations like speeding and running red lights. Offenders were to receive notifications via SMS or email, detailing the offense and payment instructions. However, complaints emerged after several motorists reported receiving multiple penalties in a single day, raising concerns about the fairness and functionality of the system.