KAMPALA– The of President Uganda Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Museveni has reaffirmed that Uganda’s move to introduce digital number plates is driven by national security concerns, not financial gain. Speaking during the presentation of the 2025/26 national budget at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, in Kampala, Museveni stressed that the initiative is aimed at fighting crime, not collecting fines.
His remarks follow public backlash over the now, suspended automated Express Penalty System (EPS). The system drew widespread criticism from motorists especially public transport operators over unexpected and hefty fines.
“I will not allow Ugandans to continue dying because of weaknesses in our security systems,” Museveni said.
He stressed that police CCTV cameras have helped, but digital number plates will enhance the ability to track criminals using vehicles and motorcycles.
Responding to concerns that the system was a revenue trap, the president stated firmly: “These plates are not for collecting fines, they are for catching criminals.”
The EPS was part of the Intelligent Traffic Monitoring System (ITMS), which uses surveillance cameras to automatically detect traffic violations such as speeding, lack of helmets, improper number plates, and unsafe transportation of children.
The broader ITMS project stems from a 10-year agreement signed in July 2021 between Uganda and Russia’s Joint Stock Company Global Security.
It includes digital trackers for all vehicles and motorcycles to improve law enforcement capabilities and road safety.
The digital plate initiative is a key element of Museveni’s 10-point security strategy, designed to curb gun violence and criminal activity involving untraceable vehicles.
Despite its intent, the EPS rollout faced widespread criticism. Motorists reported receiving surprise fines, sometimes as high as Shs 600,000, via email, often for violations they say they were unaware of. Failure to pay within 72 hours triggered an additional 50% penalty, raising fines to Shs 900,000.
