Balimwezo: Party Approval Needed for Meeting with Gen. Muhoozi on Kampala Roads

Kampala’s Lord Mayor, Ronald Balimwezo, has stated that he has no knowledge of any upcoming meeting between Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) leadership. The proposed meeting, as announced by Gen. Muhoozi on X (formerly Twitter), was intended to address the deteriorating state of roads within the capital.

Despite Gen. Muhoozi’s announcement indicating discussions would commence this week, Mayor Balimwezo, appearing on NBS Television, clarified that no invitation had been extended to him. He firmly stated that his participation in any external meetings, particularly those involving significant issues concerning the city, is contingent upon receiving explicit approval from his political party.

“I must consult my party,” Balimwezo asserted, explaining that this protocol applies regardless of who extends the invitation, including high-ranking officials like the President. He indicated that his party would either grant him authority to attend or advise against it based on their strategic considerations.

Balimwezo expressed a willingness to engage with Gen. Muhoozi, provided his party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), sanctions the meeting. He believes that if the NUP permits, and the discussion aims to improve Kampala, he would attend.

These comments come at a time when there is increased scrutiny on the Lord Mayor’s relationship with the central government, contrasting with his predecessor Erias Lukwago’s often contentious tenure. Gen. Muhoozi has recently advocated for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to take a more active role in executing road projects in Kampala, citing concerns about project delays and contractor performance. He believes the UPDF could enhance efficiency and contribute to transforming Kampala into a premier African city.

Source: Nile Post