Uganda stopped automatic traffic fines until mid-July after public complaints about the new digital monitoring system. Security Minister Jim Muhwezi said the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System helps track criminals rather than collect money from drivers. The government uses digital number plates with GPS tracking to find stolen vehicles and prevent crime. Officials already recovered one stolen car from Mukono District using the new technology. The penalty system caused confusion among citizens who thought it only existed to generate revenue.
President Museveni defended the digital plates during his budget speech and criticized old removable plates for helping criminals escape. The new plates have special features that alert police when someone tries to remove or damage them. Bluetooth beacons and tamper-detection technology make the plates harder to disable during crimes. Security agencies work with the transport ministry to operate the monitoring system across the country. The government promises to review penalty rules before restarting automatic fines.
Officials plan more discussions with the public about fair enforcement of traffic laws through the digital system. The broader monitoring infrastructure will continue operating even during the fine suspension period. Updated penalty guidelines will reach drivers before authorities restart the Express Penalty System. Security forces believe the technology will reduce vehicle theft and help solve crimes faster. Citizens expressed concerns about privacy and excessive fines through the automated cameras.
President Museveni defended the digital plates during his budget speech and criticized old removable plates for helping criminals escape. The new plates have special features that alert police when someone tries to remove or damage them. Bluetooth beacons and tamper-detection technology make the plates harder to disable during crimes. Security agencies work with the transport ministry to operate the monitoring system across the country. The government promises to review penalty rules before restarting automatic fines.
Officials plan more discussions with the public about fair enforcement of traffic laws through the digital system. The broader monitoring infrastructure will continue operating even during the fine suspension period. Updated penalty guidelines will reach drivers before authorities restart the Express Penalty System. Security forces believe the technology will reduce vehicle theft and help solve crimes faster. Citizens expressed concerns about privacy and excessive fines through the automated cameras.
