Car importers call for talks with URA over digital number plates

In response to a directive from the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), the government postponed until October 30th the rollout of the programme that was supposed to begin on July 1st 2023.

State Minister for Works Fred Byamukama claims that the contractor failed to deliver the consignment on time.

Malik Azhar, the head of the Delight Car Dealers Association, said that although they understand the security considerations that went into the government's decision to adopt digital number plates, their opinions were never taken into account because they were never contacted.

He urged the Ministry of Works and the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to pay attention to them, claiming that if the project is performed without modifications to address their concerns, particularly about prices (sh735,000 plus sh25,000 for repairing number plates), it will negatively effect their business.

The Russian company was hand-selected by the government in 2021 to provide digital licence plates with surveillance chips as part of the envisioned Intelligent Transport Motoring System.

Prior to now, lawmakers, members of the public, and advocates for human rights have expressed worries about privacy and the price of purchasing the new digital licence plates.

The tax authority also expressed concern regarding the preparedness of the project's responsible agencies and the hired firm.

In a similar incident, Malik advised URA to refrain from auctioning off automobiles that have exceeded their bond term.

The East African Community Customs Management Act of 2005 gives URA the authority to impound vehicles with foreign licence plates that are smuggled into the nation.