The government has set tough rules targeting Public Service Vehicles (PSV) in campaign processions and personal ones being used by politicians in a move aimed at ensuring compliance with traffic rules.
Through a statement shared by government spokesperson, Col (Rtd) Cyrus Oguna, on Wednesday, June 1, the decision to sanction motor vehicle operators follows increased cases of violating traffic rules, especially during the campaign period.
The government expressed concerns over the number of increasing accidents in the country and that are linked to election campaigns.
"In the last few weeks, cases of road crashes, most of which have led to unnecessary loss of innocent lives, have been on the rise. It is noted with great concern that motorists and boda boda riders are exhibiting high levels of lawlessness, with total disregard for safety measures, particularly, while on the campaign trails, thus endangering not only their lives but also that of other road users," the statement read in part.
Oguna observed that the country has experienced increased cases of violation of traffic rules including reckless overlapping, speeding, driving/riding on the wrong side of the road, and passengers dangerously hanging on vehicles.
Following increased cases of violation, the government has now warned that it will sanction motorists caught violating the traffic rules, adding that in some cases it will revoke their licences.
The government wants all vehicles operating in the campaigns to have the required licenses as approved by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
"Public Service Vehicle operators providing transport services as part of the processions are cautioned that contravening the terms and conditions for the PSV Operator's licence will attract sanctions. PSV operators with the requisite licences to participate in processions must prioritize the safety of passengers and other road users," Oguna remarked.
In the new set of rules, all motor vehicles operators have been tasked with ensuring their locomotives are roadworthy.
"Motor vehicle owners have the responsibility of ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy and the drivers are licensed. On their part, riders and motorists should drive within stipulated speeds and not to carry excess number of passengers."
Vehicles involved in campaigns have also been warned by the government against concealing number plates with posters and stickers or operating without number plates.
The government noted that the National Police Service will now impound any vehicle contravening the Traffic Act.
Further, the government has barred campaign vehicles from playing loud music around education institutions and hospitals.
"Considering that schools are in session, riders and drivers who are helping in the campaign of their candidates are urged not to play loud music around schools as doing so disrupts learning. They should keep a safe distance from school zones in order to ensure the safety of our children," Oguna concluded.
The new rules are set to guide the country with less than 69 days to the August 9 General Election.
