The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has welcomed the Office of the Judiciary’s two-month traffic fine amnesty but says it must be followed by reforms to address the challenges facing public transport operators.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, IPC shadow minister of works and transport Nelson Kalangula says the amnesty, which runs from 3 August to 30 September, offers much-needed relief to motorists, particularly taxi drivers burdened by outstanding admission of guilt fines.
He says while the initiative would help reduce court backlogs and allow motorists to settle fines without fear of arrest warrants or vehicle impoundments, it fails to address the underlying causes of traffic offences.
“Many taxi drivers accumulate fines because of rising operating costs and inadequate public transport infrastructure, forcing them to stop in prohibited areas where there are no dedicated taxi ranks or loading bays,” he says.
He urges the Ministry of Works and Transport to fast-track the public passenger road transport bill, introduce structured payment plans and discounted fines during amnesty periods, and work with local authorities to construct more public transport bays.
Kalangula also calls on the Judiciary and traffic authorities to introduce mobile verification points and extend weekend operating hours to enable drivers to verify and settle outstanding fines without sacrificing a day’s income.
He encourages motorists, particularly public transport operators, to use the amnesty period to clear outstanding fines while pledging that IPC will continue advocating fair traffic regulations and improved transport infrastructure.
