TECHNOLOGY MUST SERVE JUSTICE, NOT PUNISH UNFAIRLY: A Call for Balanced Implementation of EPS Fines in Uganda

The increased use of technology in traffic management, particularly through the Express Payment System (EPS), has raised concer

ns among various road users in Uganda. While I value and support the government's initiative to digitalize processes for better efficiency and accountability, the manner in which fines are currently being implemented raises issues of fairness, equity, and practicality.

In the new system, a driver with outstanding fines is prevented from renewing their license or from going abroad. Further, not paying the fine within 72 hours will incur a 50% surcharge. On paper, this might read like a sound deterrent to traffic offenses  but in reality, it falls disproportionately on citizens, and especially those already struggling with systemic problems and infrastructural delays.

Comparative Overview of EPS Systems

United Kingdom (UK)

• Detection: Offences (for example, speeding, red-light offences) recorded by ANPR and traffic cameras.

• Notification: Intended Prosecution Notice (NIP) issued within 14 days.

• Response Window: 14–28 days to pay or appeal.

• Fairness Features: Appealing process clearly defined by Magistrates' Court; income-based fines.

Singapore

• Detection: Electronic documentation of traffic violations and linked to the demerit point system.

• Notice: Offenders notified by registered mail or online portal.

• Response Time: 28 days before court summons.

•Fairness Features: Highly digitized, user-friendly, no immediate penalties, transparent dispute channels.

India (e-Challan System)

• Detection: Camera-based surveillance; offense details sent via SMS/email.

• Notification: The offenses are publicly visible online via license number.

• Response Window: Up to 60 days to pay or dispute.

• Fairness Features: Evidence of offense available; various payment methods; well-defined dispute process.

Netherlands

• Detection: Electronic enforcement by the Central Judicial Collection Agency (CJIB).

• Notification: Mail fines with full explanation of the offense.

• Response Window: 6 weeks with grace period extensions.

• Fairness Features: Clear procedures; dispute resolution online; up to 12 weeks prior to escalation.

Do We Really Need Technology in Traffic Enforcement?

Technology also plays a key role in improving transparency in traffic enforcement systems. By automating operations and reducing contact with humans, it greatly limits the potential for bribery or discriminatory enforcement as has been the case in Uganda. Utilization of digital technologies also generates traceable records, promoting accountability and guaranteeing that enforcement action is taken on the basis of verifiable evidence.

Technology also boosts efficiency in traffic management and revenue collection. Automated systems allow for quicker identification and processing of violations, cutting delays and administrative expenses. These technologies also bring Uganda's transport systems into line with international standards, promoting modernization and making them more responsive to the needs of an increasing urban population.

But technology should be serving humanity - not running ahead of or defeating them. It should be inclusive, humane, and contextual.

Implementation Issues in Uganda

Unrealistic Timelines

A 72-hour payment window can be achievable where there are highly integrated systems and digital access everywhere, but in Uganda, where most of the country still does not have access to reliable internet, banking systems, and digital literacy, such a window is punitive. It does not take into account the reality of informal earnings, public holidays, and business downtime.

Cross-Border Penalties

Barring interstate drivers from leaving the country due to unpaid tickets can be cast in terms of a border control, yet in reality, it has the potential to sully regional relations, hinder cross-border trade, and unfairly target travelers who might not have even received notice of the fines to begin with.

Vehicle Ownership Discrepancies

Uganda continues to face the problem of incomplete transfers of motor vehicles. A large number of vehicles on the road are not registered under the name of the true owner because of outstanding balances, loss of registration details by original owners, or bureaucratic inefficiencies. Consequently, fines are misplaced and innocent drivers are left to bear the brunt.

SIM Card Identity Gaps

The EPS system is SMS notification and mobile money alert-based, yet the majority of Ugandans have SIMs that are not registered in their names, hence it becomes a challenge for them to be notified in time about their fines. This loophole leaves room for misunderstanding, miscommunication, and involuntary defaulting.

If yes, What Should Government & Responsible Authorities Do?

Expand the Payment Period:

Extend the 72-hour payment deadline to a more reasonable timeframe-say 7 days, in order to provide individuals with few means of getting money or mobile coverage a reasonable opportunity to make payment.

Institute a Grace Period & Transparent Notification Systems:

Notify drivers through official, validated messages (SMS, email, or a single portal), and provide a grace period prior to penalties or travel restrictions.

Clear Vehicle Registration Inconsistencies:

Accelerate the vehicle transfer process and facilitate other easy and fast verification processes for owners who are unable to locate original sellers or documents.

Address SIM Card Mismatches:

Launch a public awareness campaign calling for Ugandans to renew SIM registration information (hopefully done honestly and with "purpose" this time), or enable EPS notifications to be received on more than one medium (e.g., email or NIN-associated numbers).

Establish an Appeals Procedure:

Establish a fair and accessible process for drivers to appeal fines or request reconsideration on the basis of exceptional circumstances.

Although ITMS is a significant step in the modernization of Uganda's transport infrastructure, it has raised public concerns about privacy, cost, and ongoing surveillance. The Automated Express Penalty System (EPS) that was introduced in 2025 boosts enforcement by automatically issuing penalties to traffic offenders. To be successful in the long term and gain the trust of the public, the government needs to complement enforcement with transparency, public education, and sensitivity to human rights.

Technology is a critical pillar in Uganda's journey towards transparency, digitization, and progress. However, it has to be conducted with empathy, justice, and a keen awareness of our local issues. When systems punish rather than empower, trust in digital governance is eroded. Let us utilize technology to uplift, not trap.