Leaders in Mubende have found themselves on opposite sides of a growing dispute over a municipal directive regulating where taxis can load and offload passengers within the town centre.
The standoff pits Mubende Municipality authorities against District Chairperson Michael Muhereza Ntambi, who is accused by municipal leaders of mobilising traders and taxi operators to resist enforcement of the new town order regulations.
At the heart of the dispute is a directive requiring all taxis to load and offload passengers exclusively at the designated taxi park, with no stopping permitted at various points along the Mubende Highway where informal trading activities are concentrated.
Municipal authorities argue that the measure is intended to improve traffic flow, enhance public safety, and restore order within the central business district.
However, enforcement has triggered resistance from sections of traders and transport operators who say the restrictions are disrupting customer access to businesses along the highway.
During a security meeting chaired by Mubende Resident District Commissioner Fred Kyamuzigita Nayebare, tensions came under sharp focus as leaders from both the district and municipality exchanged accusations over the handling of the directive.
Municipal Town Clerk Daniel Kasala urged leaders to follow formal administrative procedures when raising concerns, warning against mobilising the public against government programmes.
“Leaders should use the proper offices and legal channels whenever they have concerns. Mobilising members of the public against government programs only creates confusion and unnecessary tension,” Kasala said.
On his part, Ntambi defended his position, saying his actions were motivated by concerns raised by traders and taxi operators who depend on roadside access to customers.
“My responsibility is to defend the interests of the people. The concerns of traders and transport operators must be listened to before such decisions are fully implemented,” Ntambi said.
The disagreement prompted intervention from the District Security Committee amid fears that the standoff could escalate into public disorder.
RDC Kyamuzigita warned leaders against interfering with government programmes and cautioned that those found obstructing lawful directives risk facing legal consequences.
“Government programs should be implemented without interference. Any leader with concerns should follow the appropriate procedures rather than mobilising the public against lawful decisions,” he said.
He further urged both district and municipal authorities to prioritise dialogue and cooperation in resolving the matter, stressing the need to avoid disruption of public order and service delivery.
The meeting ultimately centred on the contentious taxi loading directive, with leaders agreeing on the need to maintain law and order while seeking a lasting compromise that balances regulation with the economic realities of traders and transport operators.
As the dispute continues, residents remain watchful, with expectations that authorities will strike a balance between enforcing urban planning regulations and protecting livelihoods within Mubende town.