Uganda Today Edition: Kampala’s Daily Gridlock: Presidential Convoys Turn City Streets into ‘Death Traps’
By Chris Kato, February 21, 2025
KAMPALA—The bustling streets of Uganda’s capital have long been a testament to the city’s vibrancy. However, in recent times, they have become synonymous with frustration, danger, and, tragically, death. The daily one-hour closures of major roads to accommodate President Yoweri Museveni’s convoy—and those of his family—have plunged Kampala into chaos, with citizens bearing the brunt of these disruptions.
A Personal Encounter with the Chaos
On the afternoon of February 21, 2025, I exited the Crested Tower building, intending to proceed with my day’s appointments. To my dismay, private security personnel stationed at the premises barred me from stepping onto the adjacent road. I joined the crowded exit point my heart seating with instant anger. The reason? The street had been cordoned off in anticipation of First Lady Janet Museveni’s convoy. This unscheduled closure left pedestrians stranded, businesses at a standstill, and an air of palpable frustration hanging over the area.
The Human Cost of Road Closures
These daily shutdowns, occurring both in the morning and evening, are not mere inconveniences; they are life-threatening. Emergency vehicles, including ambulances, are denied passage during these periods, leading to catastrophic delays in medical response times. There have been multiple reports of patients succumbing to their ailments while stuck in traffic, unable to reach medical facilities in time. The very measures intended to ensure the President’s security are inadvertently endangering the lives of the citizens he swore to protect.
A Stark Contrast in Leadership Approaches
The situation in Kampala stands in stark contrast to leadership styles observed elsewhere. French President Emmanuel Macron, for instance, is known for his efforts to engage directly with citizens. Despite facing political challenges, Macron has been seen mingling with the public, addressing concerns firsthand, and maintaining open lines of communication. This approach fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect between the leadership and the populace.
A Call for Rethinking Security Protocols
While the safety of the nation’s leaders is paramount, it is imperative to balance security needs with the well-being of the general public. The current approach, characterized by extensive road closures and heavy-handed security measures, has proven detrimental. It is essential to explore alternative security protocols that safeguard the President and his family without paralyzing the city’s daily functions.
An Urgent Appeal to President Museveni
Mr. President, the overzealous actions of your security personnel are causing undue hardship and, in some cases, costing lives. The blanket barring of pedestrians and vehicles, including emergency services, during these closures is a matter of grave concern. We urge you to reassess these measures and consider the welfare of the citizens. A leader’s true strength lies not only in personal safety but in the trust and well-being of the people they serve.
Conclusion
Kampala’s current predicament is a clarion call for change. By adopting a more citizen-centric approach to security and mobility, the government can alleviate the daily struggles faced by its people. It is time to prioritize the collective good and ensure that the city’s heartbeat continues without unnecessary interruptions.
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