Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-02-29 06:20:45
The Traffic and Road Safety Act 1998 (Amendment) Act 2020 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that provides guidance for motorists in Uganda. One important clause found in Section 108 of the Act pertains to the arrest of drivers who do not display identification plates on their vehicles. According to Section 108 Article 4 (C), a police officer in uniform has the authority to arrest, without a warrant, the driver of a motor vehicle, trailer, or engineering plant if they commit an offence under this section and their vehicle does not bear an identification plate.
Furthermore, the Act specifies that individuals convicted of aiding, abetting, concealing, procuring, or inciting an offence related to identification plates will face consequences for their actions. It is crucial to note that covering or concealing identification plates by using promotional materials or stickers, such as wedding decorations, is considered a violation of the law. Additionally, obstructing the visibility of number plates on motorcycles or vehicles can result in a penalty of Shs40,000.
Michael Kananura, the public relations officer of the traffic directorate, emphasizes the importance of displaying unobstructed number plates as they serve as a vehicle’s identity card. Concealing or manipulating number plates can be used to evade responsibility for crimes or traffic violations. Kananura also clarifies that using wedding stickers to temporarily cover number plates for weddings is permissible, but the plates must be uncovered before dawn to avoid legal repercussions.
Driving without proper number plates is a serious offence that can lead to the impoundment of the vehicle at the owner’s expense. Winston Katushabe, the commissioner of transport regulation and safety at the Ministry of Works and Transport, warns against the high level of impunity displayed by motorists who deliberately disobey the law. It is everyone’s responsibility to report vehicles without visible number plates, as they could be involved in criminal activities such as hit-and-run incidents or kidnappings.
Incidents of stolen number plates, as experienced by Irene Namayanja in Kampala, highlight the importance of promptly reporting such cases to law enforcement. Ignorance of the laws regarding number plate usage is not a valid defense, and all vehicles, whether private, government, or organizational, must have clearly displayed and visible number plates at all times.
In conclusion, adherence to the regulations outlined in the Traffic and Road Safety Act is essential for maintaining road safety and accountability among motorists in Uganda. Displaying proper identification plates not only upholds the law but also contributes to a safer and more transparent driving environment for all road users.
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