Politics 27 April 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Government Halts Trade Order Enforcement Amid MP Concerns
Uganda's government has suspended its nationwide trade order enforcement following outcry from MPs, traders, and religious leaders. The pause allows for consultations, with a refined approach planned by early July. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4414/govt-suspends-trade-order-enforcement
The Minister of State for Trade, Cooperatives and Industry (Industry), Hon. David Bahati, announced during a parliamentary plenary on April 24, 2026, that the government has paused enforcement of the trade order across Uganda.
This follows a crackdown launched in February by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and local governments targeting roadside vendors and illegal kiosks to promote orderliness. The operation triggered widespread backlash from the public, traders, religious leaders, and lawmakers.
Bahati explained that the suspension applies to areas not yet affected, while evictions already conducted stand. Consultations are underway, culminating in a final meeting by late June for a more humane strategy starting in July. He apologized for reckless statements made against religions during some evictions.
MPs like Hon. Solomon Silwanyi raised alarms over disrupted livelihoods and called for letters to halt ongoing town council actions. Speaker Anita Among stressed progressive implementation without goons, urging relocation to proper markets.
Kira Municipality MP Hon. Ssemujju Nganda questioned restoration plans for ruined businesses, while Erute County South’s Hon. Jonathan Odur praised the pause and advocated for prior consultations on income-affecting decisions.