Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has recently given his assent to the Traffic and Road Safety Amendment Bill of 2023, which was passed by parliament earlier this month. This bill, along with five other significant pieces of legislation, has now become law, as confirmed by the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among.
Effective from July 1st, the Traffic and Road Safety Amendment Act introduces important provisions aimed at enhancing road safety in the country. One of the notable changes is the introduction of stricter penalties for individuals who fail to comply with speed limits set under subsection (1) of the Act. Offenders will face potential conviction, leading to a fine not exceeding one hundred currency points (approximately Shs 2 million) or imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
Moreover, the Act establishes a speed limit express penalty scheme, simplifying the enforcement process for speed violations. This mechanism offers an alternative to court prosecution as provided for under the Roads Act of 2019, thereby expediting the handling of speed-related offenses.
President Museveni’s assent was not limited to the Traffic and Road Safety Amendment Bill alone. He also signed into law five additional bills, reflecting the government’s commitment to diverse policy areas. These include the Appropriations Bill 2023, the Value Added Tax Amendment Bill 2023, the Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2023, the Lotteries and Gaming Bill of 2023, and the Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters Bill of 2023.
The Appropriations Bill 2023 is of particular significance as it lays out the country’s financial plans, allocating funds to various sectors and government projects. Similarly, the Value Added Tax Amendment Bill 2023 introduces changes to the taxation system, while the Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2023 provides supplementary budgetary provisions to cater to unexpected expenditures.
The Lotteries and Gaming Bill of 2023 seeks to regulate and oversee the operations of lotteries and gaming activities in Uganda, ensuring transparency and fairness. Lastly, the Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters Bill of 2023 establishes a framework for international cooperation in tax matters, facilitating the exchange of information and assistance between Uganda and other participating countries.
With the assent of these bills, President Museveni demonstrates the government’s commitment to address various aspects of governance, including road safety, finance, taxation, gaming, and international cooperation. The newly enacted legislation is expected to contribute to the overall development and welfare of Uganda and its citizens.
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