Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has dramatically backed down from his controversial directive restricting bars and nightclubs from opening before 3pm on working days, following intervention from Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Balaam had earlier directed bar and nightclub owners to keep their businesses closed until 3pm on working days, arguing that early drinking was affecting productivity. He also warned that those who defied the directive would face arrest.
However, the minister has now appeared to reverse the position after Gen. Muhoozi publicly challenged the directive.
Speaking to journalists at the vigil of the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV in Buziga, Kampala, Balaam said Ugandans were free to determine when to open and close their bars.
“Ugandans, you are free to open and close bars at any time you want because you have got President Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who loves drunkards, and you also love him,” Balaam said.
The dramatic U-turn follows Gen. Muhoozi’s argument that bar opening hours should be determined by business proprietors, provided their establishments do not promote violence or disorder.
Balaam appeared to accept the CDF’s position, responding to Muhoozi’s post on X with the brief message: “Order taken Chairman with utmost respect.”
The exchange has sparked debate among Ugandans over the government’s position on alcohol regulation, particularly when senior officials appear to hold differing views on how such measures should be implemented.
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