Kampala Sees Quiet Inauguration Day Amidst Tense Calm

Kampala appeared subdued on Tuesday as President Yoweri Museveni took the oath for his seventh term. A palpable sense of tension mingled with the quiet, as businesses operated at a slower pace and traffic was significantly lighter than usual.

Major thoroughfares that typically buzz with weekday activity remained conspicuously clear. Security forces were visible at critical government sites and major intersections, contributing to the hushed atmosphere. Many shops in the city center remained closed, while those that opened reported very few customers.

Traders expressed the difficulty of the situation. Umar Kabugo, a vendor, explained that despite the low customer turnout, they had to open their businesses to earn a daily income to support their families, facing pressures from rent, taxes, and rising operational costs. He noted that high fuel prices and reduced consumer spending are making it increasingly challenging.

Pedestrian traffic was noticeably down, with many residents opting to stay home. Transport hubs also experienced a slowdown. Mustafa Kabuye, a stage manager at the New Taxi Park, indicated that many taxis were waiting for passengers for extended periods, unlike a normal business day. He cited people staying home and the rising cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance as factors impacting business, with only long-distance routes showing some activity.

Small business owners and casual laborers also reported a slow and challenging day, with some earning little to no income.