Namutumba Kiosk Demolitions Spark Bribery and Selective Enforcement Claims

Authorities in Namutumba Town Council launched a demolition drive on Friday against illegal kiosks along streets, including parts of the Iganga–Mbale Highway, to uphold planning rules and restore order.

Affected traders quickly raised alarms over alleged corruption, claiming that some kiosk owners paid bribes to escape demolition while others were targeted.

Trader Tom Bakulimya announced plans to petition Local Government Minister Raphael Magezi for clarity on trade laws and fair application. Robbina Namubya highlighted how her mother’s corridor kiosk was razed, yet main road structures stood untouched, fueling suspicions of payments securing exemptions.

Namubya warned of potential vendor protests if unresolved, and some traders threatened to withhold council taxes.

Contact attempts with Town Clerk Hellen Kauma failed, but anonymous council staff confirmed witnessing favoritism, questioning why high-value sites like a mosque were hit but others spared.

Some property owners have even begun refitting demolished kiosks to restart operations.

Deputy Resident District Commissioner Paul Waiswa stated the district security committee will probe the claims and assess the exercise, allowing trader petitions to the ministry while pledging continued enforcement under the Trade Act post-review.

This story is based on a report from the Daily Monitor.