On Tuesday, 15th April 2024, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner (DRCC) of Fort Portal City, Mr. Businge Emmanuel, announced the suspension of daily charges for operators at the Mpanga Taxi Stage for vehicles on the Fort Portal–Kamwenge–Mbarara route.

The decision followed a meeting with taxi operators and security chiefs in the city, aimed at averting a demonstration by aggrieved taxi drivers, conductors, and guides. The operators claimed they were being exploited and harassed by one Mr. Mayanja Kadir. The affected operators revealed that Mr. Kadir collects over fifteen thousand shillings per vehicle daily from all operators along the Mbarara route. However, Mr. Kadir stated that the money collected was an obligation for all association members at the stage, though he failed to provide satisfactory accountability or justification for the fees.

The DRCC reminded the group that the President had abolished the collection of daily fees from taxi operators due to similar complaints of exploitation and harassment by service providers previously contracted to manage the sector. He warned against actions that undermine the President’s directive, emphasizing that all Ugandans should be able to work without undue harassment. He also urged calm, assuring the stakeholders that the matter would be addressed promptly.

A committee was instituted to investigate the matter thoroughly, with a mandate to look into allegations of criminality, lack of accountability, and leadership concerns to restore order in the city.

A report is expected within one week to guide the next course of action by the city leadership, headed by the Resident City Commissioner. Also present at the meeting was the Regional Police Commander for Rwenzori West, among other officials.