Tokola Error is the new national anthem on the streets and timelines. Every Ugandan will get their 15 minutes of fame in this economy. This time, it is the Masandugu family in the spotlight. As we laughed, and recreated the sound all over TikTok and X , Uganda Police saw the perfect opportunity to sneak in something heavy, the new automated traffic penalties. Mbu automated, using the newly launched digital number plates.
Now, we all know the word automated gets stage fright whenever it is forced into anything Uganda government. But let us give them the benefit of the doubt. Maybe, just maybe, this time it is not another Excel sheet renamed “AI system.” According to the new laws, drink driving? That is Shs500,000 plus a mandatory court appearance. So if court has ever been on your bucket list, congratulations, your dreams are now within reach.
Using your phone while driving? Shs2m or one year in jail. Or both. This, with 90 percent of all drivers in the country, and the prisons already full, I wonder if house arrest will be an option. Speeding, even by 1km/hr above the limit in that area, might cost you a sweet 200K to 600K fine. Now imagine traffic officers reading this booking tailors to expand their pockets, smiling all the way to the roadside. To them these fines are not just revenue, they are retirement plans. Funny how these were rolled out right when everyone’s focus was on Tokola Error, celebrity football matches, and Frank Gashumba’s hairline. Strategic distraction level: expert. Tokola Error, Muganda wange — especially not on the road.
