The outgoing LC3 Chairperson of Bisheshe Division in Ibanda Municipality, Johnson Kanyomozi, has urged government to compensate traders whose structures were demolished during the ongoing enforcement of the new trade order in the municipality.
The enforcement exercise, launched this week by municipal authorities, targets the removal of illegal vendors and structures occupying public spaces as part of efforts to restore order and improve urban planning in Ibanda Municipality.
However, the operation has left several traders counting losses after their kiosks and business structures were brought down, with many expressing uncertainty about their future sources of income.
Speaking to reporters, Kanyomozi said many of the affected traders had invested in construction with the knowledge or presence of local authorities, who he argued failed to properly guide them on the required legal procedures.
“These affected traders were allowed to continue constructing their structures in the knowledge of the responsible officials. The authorities should have guided them on what to do so that in future they do not lose their property,” Kanyomozi said.
He added that government should take responsibility for the losses incurred, arguing that enforcement failures contributed to the situation.
“The government should compensate the affected people because the responsible officers who were supposed to enforce the law never did their role,” he said.
The operation has sparked mixed reactions within Ibanda Municipality. While some residents and leaders have welcomed it as a necessary step to decongest the town, improve sanitation, and enforce orderly development, others have criticised the manner in which it was carried out.
Critics argue that the exercise was implemented abruptly, without sufficient notice or clear guidance to affected traders, leaving many unprepared for the demolitions.
Some of the affected traders say they had invested significant amounts of money in their business structures and are now facing severe financial losses following the crackdown. They have appealed for government intervention, including compensation or alternative trading spaces to help them recover.
Municipal authorities, however, maintain that the operation is lawful and necessary. They argue that it is aimed at ensuring that all business activities are conducted in designated areas and in compliance with municipal planning regulations.
Officials say the enforcement of the trade order is part of a broader effort to reorganise urban centres, eliminate illegal structures, and promote orderly economic activity within the municipality.
As the operation continues, tensions remain between enforcement authorities and sections of affected traders, with calls growing for clearer communication and possible mitigation measures to address the economic impact of the demolitions.
