KAMPALA – A high-profile parliamentary investigation into the controversial redevelopment of the Nakivubo Channel has been abruptly halted after the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, intervened to stop the proceedings.
The much-anticipated meeting between the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) and officials from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) collapsed before it could begin on Tuesday.
The committee’s chairperson, Medard Lubega Ssegona, informed members that the session was called off following a direct directive from the Speaker. According to Ssegona, Speaker Among ruled that the matter of the Nakivubo Channel redevelopment falls outside the jurisdiction of COSASE.
“The decision followed a directive from the Speaker, instructing COSASE to halt proceedings on the Nakivubo Channel redevelopment,” Ssegona stated. “The Speaker noted that this matter properly falls under a select committee of the Physical Infrastructure Committee.”
The move effectively transfers the probe from a committee focused on accountability and enterprise to one that deals with physical development and public works. This has raised questions about the future scope and direction of the parliamentary investigation.
The Nakivubo Channel project, a multi-billion shilling drainage initiative, has been the subject of intense public scrutiny and political debate. COSASE had summoned KCCA officials to answer questions regarding the procurement process, contract details, and the overall management of the project, which is critical for preventing flooding in the city center.
It remains unclear when the newly mandated select committee under the Physical Infrastructure Committee will commence its own hearings. The sudden change has left many anticipating the next steps in unpacking the details of the significant public works project.
