By Aggrey Baba
Bus drivers aged 65 and above are now at the center of a major Works and Transport Ministry’s crackdown, as it investigates bus companies accused of keeping elderly drivers on the road, despite clear safety regulations barring them from operating large passenger vehicles.
On Tuesday, State Minister Fred Byamukama revealed that some companies are helping aging drivers forge documents, especially affidavits, to reduce their age and keep their commercial driving permits, which according to him, isn’t just a simple forgery case, because it puts people’s lives at risk.
“Reflexes slow down, vision weakens, and pressure-related illnesses increase with age. That’s why the law is clear, once you clock 65, you are not supposed to drive a commercial bus,” Byamukama said firmly.
He emphasized that elderly drivers are encouraged to transition to driving smaller vehicles or take up alternative roles in the transport sector, but continuing to drive buses is too dangerous.
The probe was triggered by a series of tragic accidents involving long-distance buses (especially those operated by YY Coaches).
In one incident, a bus overturned and caught fire on the Mukono (Katosi road), killing three passengers and injuring more than 30 others. Investigations pointed to overspeeding and possibly the presence of flammable liquids (local waragi) on board.
Just days later, another YY bus was involved in a crash near Karuma Junction in Ayago village, leaving several people injured.
In response, the works ministry has suspended YY Coaches for 15 days and ordered a full inspection of all its vehicles, documents, and drivers.
A special joint team from the Ministry of Works, traffic police, and other agencies will verify drivers’ age, health records, licenses, and employment letters.
“We shall not allow companies to manipulate the system. If anyone is caught hiring unfit drivers or falsifying documents, they will face the law. Charges like forgery and conspiracy are on the table,” the minister warned.
YY Coaches, which has been operating since 2008 and runs more than 60 buses on routes across Uganda, says it will cooperate fully with the investigation.
Meanwhile, transport industry leaders are backing Byamukama’s tough decision, saying it’s timely because it’s about lives.
The government also warned that any company that fails to meet at least 40% of the required safety and regulatory standards could face permanent suspension. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
