The Ugandan government has suspended the recently introduced Automated Express Penalty System (EPS Auto) after a wave of criticism from motorists, taxi operators, and civil society. The suspension was announced by the Ministry of Works and Transport on Wednesday night and takes effect immediately.

According to the ministry’s statement, the suspension follows a comprehensive review of the system’s implementation and public feedback. An official address from Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, the Minister for Works and Transport, is expected to outline the government’s next steps.

“We encourage all road users to continue observing traffic laws and maintaining discipline on the roads during this interim period,” the ministry urged in its communication.

The decision comes in the wake of mounting opposition from the Uganda Federation of Taxi Operators (UTOF), which had issued a five-day ultimatum demanding the full withdrawal of the automated traffic enforcement measures. The group threatened nationwide demonstrations if their concerns were not addressed.

Earlier on Wednesday, UTOF representatives, led by Chairperson Rashid Ssekindi, delivered a petition to the Ministry of Works and Transport. The petition called for the cancellation of recently introduced traffic regulations, including new speed limits and the planned implementation of digital number plates.

A meeting between the ministry and UTOF, attended by Commissioner Winston Katushabe, ended without consensus. While ministry officials suggested the possibility of reviewing certain elements of the traffic regulations, the taxi operators insisted on a complete reversal.

In their appeal, UTOF warned that the EPS Auto system would add to, rather than alleviate, the burdens facing motorists, particularly those in the public transport sector.