A growing coalition of Kampala city traders affiliated with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is calling on party delegates to reject Hajj Hassan Basajjabalaba’s attempt to return as chairman of the NRM Entrepreneurs League.
The traders cite allegations of corruption, neglect, and misuse of office during his previous tenure.
Traders say Basajjabalaba’s involvement in fraudulent land deals and questionable compensation claims has severely damaged the league’s reputation and credibility.
Instead of championing the economic interests of small businesses, they accuse him of turning the league into a “private cash machine.”
“We have been abandoned to high taxes, poor market conditions, and unfair competition from imports,” said Gerald Nsubuga, a textile dealer operating in Kikuubo Market.
“The only time we hear from him is when another theft scandal breaks out. Delegates must rescue the league from the fangs of a man only known for stealing.”
Basajjabalaba, a prominent businessman and long-time NRM stalwart, is reportedly seeking to regain his seat on the league’s Central Executive Committee ahead of the August 25 elections.
Basajjabalaba previously served as the chairman of the NRM Entrepreneurs League, a position he held until 2015.
In that year, he faced competition from businessman and diplomat Robert Rukaari, who challenged his leadership.
However, now an alliance of traders is mobilising to block his return.
“Where was he when KCCA evicted vendors without compensation? Where was he when URA increased taxes on imports?” asked Proscovia Namatovu, a cosmetics trader in Owino Market.
“True leadership means standing with us in our struggles, not hiding until another election cycle.”
Hajj Musa Kiggundu, an electronics importer, added that Basajjabalaba’s recurring involvement in legal and financial scandals has discouraged serious investors from engaging with the league.
“Do you think investors will take us seriously when our chairman is constantly facing court cases over fraud? Delegates must choose someone who opens doors, not closes them with scandal,” he said.
Traders further accuse Basajjabalaba of failing to introduce meaningful reforms or support systems for small business owners.
Instead, they say he has used his position to advance personal business interests, particularly in public land and market affairs.
Reports from NRM delegates in Kampala central and regions such as Busoga and Karamoja indicate growing opposition to Basajjabalaba’s candidacy.
Many believe this marks the first time traders from diverse regions are uniting to reject a candidate solely on integrity grounds.
“We don’t want another five years of theft and silence,” said Nsubuga.
“We want a leader who works for all traders, not just his family and kin in Ishaka.”
One delegate from Nakivubo Market concluded, “This vote will not be about loyalty. It will be about saving our league from collapse under a man whose only legacy is scandal.”
