Parliament to Debate Trader Evictions as Kira Municipality Demolitions Loom
KAMPALA — Parliament is set to discuss the ongoing eviction of traders from streets and public spaces across cities and municipalities, Speaker Anita Among has announced, following an urgent plea from Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju over planned demolitions scheduled for tomorrow.
Raising a matter of national importance on the floor of Parliament, Mr Ssemujju sought guidance on when the House would address the forced evictions, which he described as violent and destructive. He specifically drew attention to the demolition of kiosks and property in Kiira (Kira) Municipality, warning that further evictions are scheduled to take place as early as tomorrow.
“When will this matter be placed on the order paper?” Mr Ssemujju asked, noting that traders in his constituency face the imminent loss of their livelihoods.
In response, Speaker Among stated that the matter is being considered and that Parliament will deliberate on it after a formal statement from the relevant ministry is tabled. She indicated that the government is expected to present its position, after which the House will hold a substantive discussion.
“It is being considered, and the relevant ministry will handle it in due course, at which point the matter can be discussed,” Ms Among said.
The Speaker’s remarks came amid growing concern over the forceful removal of vendors and small-scale traders in several urban centers, a practice that has drawn criticism from lawmakers and civil society alike. The planned demolitions in Kira Municipality have heightened tensions, with MPs demanding clarity on government policy regarding street vending and urban planning.
Parliament is now expected to schedule the debate once the government’s statement is presented.
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