Chairperson of the National Council of Civic Education and Development, Kalilu Totangi has criticised the implementation of the Waka Fine Buses, stating that it is a big mess and not the intention of government.

Kalilu said the idea of the government and its partners has been a great one, and the buses’ purpose is to move people from place to place effectively. However, he said the implementation has been completely messy due to a lack of public education.

Kalilu revealed that the absence of adequate public education has resulted in widespread confusion among the citizens.

He emphasised that people were left in confusion regarding the actual cost of the ticket, with conflicting information circulating. He revealed that he himself initially believed the ticket was valid for 12 hours, as this was the information going around. Adding that the people in charge were not swift in giving out the right information.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, Kalilu urged authorities to step up and educate the public about the purpose of the grant. He clarified that the funds allocated for the Waka Fine Buses are intended to alleviate transportation challenges for the people. Kalilu stressed the importance of disseminating accurate information to dispel misconceptions and build public trust.

In addition to critiquing the buses’ implementation, Kalilu further stated that the decision to restrict other public transport from 6am to 10pm is a move he termed as a ‘no-brainer.