The government has suspended the services of Jaguar Bus Company for ten days following a fatal accident involving one of its buses that claimed ten lives. The company will be required to meet all conditions set by the government before it can resume operations.
The suspension was announced by Minister of State for Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, who cited reckless driving as the primary cause of the fatal accident. Byamukama expressed concern over the safety standards maintained by the bus company.
“This decision is not taken lightly, but it is necessary to ensure the safety of all road users. The reckless driving exhibited by Jaguar buses has put many lives at risk, and we cannot allow this to continue,” he said.
Byamukama also issued a stern warning to Gateway Bus Services, indicating that they could face similar consequences if they do not improve their operational standards.
“We are closely monitoring other bus companies, including Gateway. If they do not revise their ways, they may face suspension as well,” he warned.
The government has assured passengers who rely on Jaguar buses that alternative transportation options are available, including taxis. Discussions are also underway with other bus companies to provide additional transportation services. The government is committed to reducing road accidents, many of which are caused by mechanical issues, and has urged all bus companies to prioritize safety.
The minister also revealed that the driver who disappeared at the time of the accident on September 1, finally appeared with a wounded arm at the transport ministry on Wednesday to plead on behalf of the company with routes connecting Kampala to Rwanda, Burundi and DR Congo.
“This shows that people, especially these big companies, are taking accidents in a normal way because I even didn’t see police coming to arrest him, yet they have been looking for him,” Byamukama added.
