A section of residents in Kabale Municipality have expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing trade order enforcement, accusing municipal officials of selectively demolishing buildings in Northern Division.
The nationwide campaign aimed at improving urban planning, sanitation, and public safety officially kicked off in Kabale Municipality on Tuesday.
The exercise began in Rwakaraba and other areas of Northern Division, where several buildings marked with “X” for demolition were brought down.
However, some residents say the operation has not been applied fairly.
Boda boda cyclist Prosper Byonanebye, who operates from Rwakaraba Stage, said he was surprised that some buildings marked for demolition were left standing while others were destroyed, alleging that selective enforcement has raised suspicions of bribery influencing which structures are spared.
Rwakaraba resident Wilbroad Twesigye also criticised the exercise, saying it appears to favour wealthier property owners. He said some dilapidated buildings remained untouched despite being earmarked for demolition.
“The exercise favors the rich. Some poor buildings were left standing yet they were marked. Authorities should apply the trade order without discrimination,” Twesigye said.
Kabale Municipal Deputy Town Clerk Erick Sunday dismissed allegations of selective enforcement, insisting that officials are strictly following trade order guidelines. He explained that some property owners repainted their buildings after being marked, making identification difficult during the initial phase.
Sunday said the municipality is aware of such cases and will return to ensure all affected structures are handled. He added that some buildings were temporarily spared because they house vulnerable families who were given a two-month ultimatum to relocate.
“We marked all structures that did not meet standards. Some owners repainted after marking. We also gave vulnerable families two months to relocate. The operation targets illegal structures, not individuals, and will continue across all divisions,” Sunday said.
He added that the operation will extend beyond Northern Division to other parts of Kabale Municipality, stressing that all structures violating trade order requirements will be addressed regardless of the owner’s status.
