ENTEBBE, UGANDA – In a startling incident that has sent ripples through Kampala’s business community, Mr. Isa Ssekito, the leader of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), was allegedly chased away from State House, Entebbe, by Special Forces Command (SFC) soldiers last week, acting on the direct orders of President Yoweri Museveni.
According to sources familiar with the event, the embarrassing scene unfolded late in the night when Ssekito, accompanied by a group of 15 individuals who identified themselves as traders, had managed to gain access to the State House grounds. Their purported aim was to secure an impromptu meeting with the President to lobby for inclusion in the budget for political mobilizers, specifically those tasked with canvassing support for him among Kampala’s traders.
The plan, however, backfired dramatically. Sources indicate that President Museveni, who had just concluded a meeting with other visitors around 10:00 PM, was informed of the unscheduled delegation’s presence. Instead of granting them an audience, the President reportedly lost his temper.
Gen. Museveni immediately ordered his SFC commandos to eject the group from the premises. The soldiers reportedly carried out the order with force, even manhandling Ssekito as he attempted to plead his case directly to the President.
The incident highlights the intense behind-the-scenes jostling for position and resources ahead of potential political activities. Ssekito’s alleged attempt to secure a financial role in the President’s Kampala campaign suggests a deep desire for influence within trader circles, a key demographic.
Furthermore, the President’s sharp reaction and the physical removal of a prominent business leader signal a low tolerance for what he may perceive as unsanctioned lobbying or opportunism. The fact that the group “sneaked in” also raises serious questions about State House security protocols and access.
There has been no official comment from State House or the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) regarding the alleged incident. KACITA officials could also not be immediately reached for comment. If confirmed, the event marks a significant and public fall from grace for Mr. Ssekito and underscores the volatile nature of political allegiances and access to power.
About The Author
