KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Traffic Police, through its spokesperson Michael Kananura, has issued a clarification to the public regarding right-of-way protocols on the nation’s roads, particularly concerning emergency services and VIP convoys.
This statement comes amidst growing public discourse about perceived disparities in road usage, notably involving the motorcades of political leaders.
Recent criticism has been directed at the President’s convoy for its significant impact on traffic flow and daily routines. Addressing this, Kananura explicitly stated the legal precedence afforded to the head of state.
“The President ranks first in terms of right of way,” he affirmed. He further explained the legal obligation of other road users, stating that “drivers must yield as soon as they see the first lead vehicle of the convoy, and only after it has passed can other road users proceed.”
Kananura also enumerated other individuals and entities legally entitled to priority on Ugandan roads. “The Vice President, the Speaker of Parliament, the Prime Minister, and the Chief Justice are among those granted right of way by law.”
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Additionally, he included “emergency vehicles belonging to the Police, Military, and Central Bank bullion vans transporting cash” in this category, explicitly noting that this privilege does not extend to cash transport vehicles from other financial institutions.
Furthermore, Kananura addressed the right of way for medical emergencies. He stated that “ambulances responding to emergencies are entitled to right of way as well.” However, he cautioned against the misuse of this provision, warning against “individuals pretending to be emergency vehicles using sirens to disrupt traffic.”
Finally, Kananura confirmed that “vehicles responding to fires also have priority on the roads.”
He concluded with a stern warning against the fraudulent invocation of these privileges, stating that “such actions are illegal and that severe consequences await those who are caught.”
