Investigations into the controversial redevelopment of the Nakivubo Channel have taken a dramatic twist after Speaker of Parliament Anita Among ordered the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) to halt its inquiry into the matter.
Earlier on Tuesday, the COSASE committee, chaired by Hon. Medard Ssegona, had summoned stakeholders linked to the controversial handover of the Nakivubo Channel to KI-Ham Enterprises, a company owned by city businessman Hamis Kiggundu, commonly known as Ham.
However, the session was abruptly suspended following a formal communication from the Speaker’s office.
A letter dated August 19, 2025, and read out by Chairperson Ssegona, revealed that the Speaker had reassigned the probe to the Parliamentary Committee on Physical Infrastructure, chaired by Hon. Dan Kimosho.
The committee has been directed to conduct a fact-finding mission to determine how KI-Ham Enterprises acquired rights to redevelop the Nakivubo Channel, and to report their findings within 14 days.
The Speaker’s decision has sparked criticism, particularly from Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who condemned the move as a setback to transparency and accountability. Lukwago accused Parliament of bowing to the influence of private individuals.
“It’s deeply disappointing to witness Parliament, an arm of government, appear to bow to the whims of an individual like Ham. This undermines the institution and jeopardizes public trust,” Lukwago stated.
The Lord Mayor further alleged that Hamis Kiggundu had illegally obtained land titles over the Nakivubo Channel, in violation of existing laws and procedures.
The Nakivubo Channel redevelopment has been under public scrutiny amid concerns over environmental impact, public land giveaways, and lack of transparency.
The latest developments are likely to intensify debate over the role of powerful business figures in public infrastructure projects and the independence of parliamentary oversight.
The country now awaits the findings of the Physical Infrastructure Committee’s investigation, which is expected to clarify the legality and process behind the controversial handover.
By Francis Lubega
26th Aug 2025
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