Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has instructed the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, to ensure that all impounded Boda Bodas are swiftly returned to their rightful owners.

This directive is in line with President Yoweri Museveni’s previous orders, which underscored the need to release these motorcycles, recognizing their significance as a vital source of income for many Ugandans.

Although the Police had announced last month that they would release all impounded Boda Bodas, recent reports reveal that this order has yet to be fully implemented. Instead, the Police continue to impound more motorcycles, with over 50,000 currently held at various stations, particularly in the Kampala Metropolitan area.

During Thursday’s Prime Minister’s Question Time in Parliament, Mubende Municipality MP Bashir Lubega raised concerns about the conduct of the Traffic Police in his district.

He accused them of extorting bribes from Boda Boda riders and described their actions as a “reign of terror.” Lubega’s claims suggested widespread corruption, with officers demanding payments before returning the impounded motorcycles.

Lubega’s comments caught the Prime Minister off guard, as she believed the President’s directive had already been executed.

Expressing her frustration, Nabbanja directed Gen. Muhoozi to take immediate action to enforce the President’s orders. She stressed the importance of compliance and called for an end to the Police’s continued impounding of Boda Bodas.

“The President’s orders were clear: return the Boda Bodas to their owners. I am troubled to hear that this has not been done. General Muhoozi, you must ensure that these motorcycles are returned as directed,” Nabbanja demanded.

Her remarks reflect the government’s concern over the lack of adherence to presidential directives and the need to address corruption within the Police force, particularly regarding the treatment of Boda Boda riders.