Government Halts Controversial Plan to Transform Constitution Square into Mall

The Ugandan Cabinet has officially halted a contentious plan to redevelop Constitution Square into a commercial real estate complex. The decision brings an end to a high-stakes debate over the future of Kampala’s premier public park and historic landmark.

Addressing reporters, Minister of ICT and National Guidance Justine Kasule Lumumba confirmed that the executive body resolved to scrap the development proposal. She emphasized that the site’s history, legal protections, and environmental significance ultimately guided the government’s U-turn.

According to the minister, Constitution Square remains a strictly protected heritage site under the Museums and Monuments Act, 2023, and a 2024 heritage protection instrument. Spanning over one hectare, the property also hosts the 1945 War Memorial dedicated to Ugandan soldiers who served in the First and Second World Wars.

The reversal comes shortly after senior government officials and private investors pushed to convert the park. The initiative followed an August directive by President Museveni instructing the Minister for Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to evaluate a proposal by businessman Hassan Bulwadda to construct a hotel and shopping complex on the grounds.

While some officials argued the project would modernize the capital and rid the area of criminal elements, the plan faced fierce opposition. Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo and Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi led protests, warning that losing the core green space would damage the city’s ecological balance and civic identity.

With the Cabinet’s resolution, the historic square will maintain its protected status as an open public sanctuary in downtown Kampala. Read the full story on the Daily Monitor.