Traders in Kampala’s central business district and other parts of the city have opted to keep their shops closed until they can meet with the President in significant numbers. This decision, led by the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), underscores the growing discontent with what they see as government neglect of their issues.
Thaddeus Musoke, KACITA chairman, highlighted the gravity of the situation: “Traders have chosen to shut down their shops across the nation due to the government’s indifference to our plight.”
Downtown Kampala remains under tight security as traders prepare for their demonstration, turning to prayer for strength and guidance as they brace for the challenges ahead.
“The only way to find solace and courage for our next steps is through prayer,” said Nagenda, a trader.
Traders expressed frustration over the prolonged neglect of their concerns, noting that despite promises of incentives to deter demonstrations, the government has yet to provide any concrete documentation.
Ramathan Ggoobi, Secretary to the Treasury, emphasized the government’s stance, reiterating that the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS) is here to stay.
Last week, despite KACITA’s request to avoid demonstrations, a group of traders under the Federation of Uganda Traders Association (FUTA) closed shop in protest.
“Now that KACITA has joined the demonstration and is mobilizing for nationwide shop closures, the pressure intensifies on the President to address traders’ concerns,” added Nagenda.
The focus now turns to whether the President will respond to the traders’ calls and engage in dialogue to chart a path forward.
