MPs Questioned Minister Why Gov’t Phased Out Scratch Cards Before Consulting Public

Posted by: lukwago J in Uganda news August 10, 2018

In July, the government banned scratch cards and replaced them with the digital airtime which left many crying and suffering especially in rural areas.

Check also: Airtime Cards Should Be Erased Before July- UCC

Yesterday, the Members of Parliament pressurized the National Guidance and ICT minister, Tumwebaze Frank to give an explanation why the government never bothered to seek information from the public before scrapping off the scratch-cards.

Our people are facing challenges to access airtime especially in areas which aren’t covered with electricity, and you’re talking of electronic revolution. You’re causing pain to our people. You would have consulted us or our people before coming up with such decisions,’’Hon Kinyamatama Juliet, Rakai Woman MP asked minister.

The lawmakers accused the government who are only in favor of the communication companies and making money, but they couldn’t mind of the customers who buy the product.

However, according to Tumwebaze’s response, he accepted that scrapping off the scratch cards should be progressively slow to minimize inconveniences to people .

We accepted a slow removal of scratch cards with increased awareness and of which it is the main concern of the Members of Parliament. The major interest for telecom companies is to make sure many people buy airtime, but they cannot implement strategies that could make them lose. Digital airtime loading will certainly benefit everyone in the end,’’ said minister.

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