The Justice Minister Nobert Mao has condemned businessman Hamis Kiggundu for allegedly dragging the name of the President into the Nakivubo Channel construction dispute by waving what he described as a “blue letter” instead of following established legal procedures.
Mao emphasises that even when acting on a presidential directive, individuals must do so within the law and not resort to forceful actions such as deploying bulldozers to demolish structures.
He said this in relation to the 6th and 31st October 2025 incidents when rains in the Kampala City caused floods that submerged streets, buildings and shops destroying property and merchandise of over 500 city traders they had stocked for the festive season.
The floods were escalated by the blockages on the drainage system caused by the ongoing construction works along the Nakivubo Channel by the businessman Hamis Kiggundu.
Following the incident government through the Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja inspected the affected members and promised government intervention with a compensation for the loss incurred a promise which has never been honoured. Traders through their associations have repeatedly reminded government to make its commitment to save their businesses.
Now Mao says that the ongoing failures within the justice, security and governance systems are a sign that leaders have let down the people they serve.
Mao made the remarks during the launch of the 30th Annual Justice, Law and Order Sector Performance Report for the financial year 2024/2025 in Kampala, where government and development partners gathered to mark 25 years since the establishment of JLOS.
By Olivia Nabaggala
09th Dec 2025
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