Former Kampala mayoral candidate on the Democratic Party (DP) ticket, Beatrice Mao, has criticised the government’s decision to evict traders, boda boda riders, and taxis from the streets of Kampala, describing the move as discriminatory and insensitive to people’s livelihoods.

Speaking at the DP headquarters along Balintuma Road in Mengo, Kampala, Mao argued that the government should have put in place viable alternative arrangements before implementing what she termed a drastic action.

She questioned the suitability of the markets designated for street vendors, noting that many of the locations do not provide a conducive working environment for vendors to earn a sustainable living.

Mao further said the manner in which the evictions are being handled shows little consideration for the economic realities faced by urban informal workers.

Her remarks come amid an ultimatum issued by the Minister for Kampala and the Metropolitan Area, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, directing street vendors to vacate Kampala’s streets within two weeks.

The minister warned that failure to comply would result in strict enforcement measures, including arrests.

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