The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Mbarara, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | More than 400 kiosk owners operating along Ntare Road in Mbarara yesterday morning stormed the offices of Mbarara City Council protesting their eviction. The Kiosk Owners were given an ultimatum to vacate the area within seven days or face maximum force.
However, the welders operating in the area say that the notice that was issued by Mbarara City North Division Clerk Shaban Wasuba is inappropriate because it does not offer an alternative space for them. Joseph Katweire, one of the affected welders says that the seven days ultimatum is a short time for them to shift their heavy-duty equipment.
Amen Favor, one of the other affected persons questioned why they were forced to pay for business licences while operating in illegal structures and asked the council to allocate them a place with a three-phase electricity power line instead of blindly ejecting them.
Muhammad Byansi, the councillor representing Kakoba A, said that the council only passed a resolution calling for the demolition of kiosks in the central business area, a move which was later frustrated by politicians with their interests.
He says the resolution was to fight against the business people who close their shops and operate from the roadside and not welders and carpenters who have wooden shade.
Mbarara City Deputy Mayor Priscah Mulongo Muganzi urged affected individuals to express their grievances in writing rather than protesting. She assured them that a special meeting would be arranged to address their concerns.
However, Mbarara Town Clerk Asse Abireebe Tumwesigire said the council passed a resolution that is being implemented by the divisions and this will affect all kiosk owners and roadside traders despite their protests.
*******
URN
