The ongoing uncertainty in Kisekka market may soon erupt into another round of violent demonstrations as traders seek ownership of the market. This follows long days of waiting for confirmatory communication from the ministry of local government, which is not forthcoming.
It is about a month now since Kisekka market erupted into violent demonstrations as vendors put up a case for ownership of the market. This followed indications that the market was about to be taken over by a private developer – Rhino investments.
However The President later assured these traders, that Kisekka market was theirs to develop and own. Nevertheless, the traders continue pushing for written confirmation as proof that there will be no foul play.
They assert that the Ministry of local government assured them of such a document in a week’s time, which is now long overdue, making them re-consider violence.
The vendors have organized themselves into a company, ‘Nakivubo Road Old Kampala Kisekka Market Market Vendors Limited,’ to run the market and put up new structures. Nevertheless, all this is on hold as uncertainty prevails.
In a phone interview however, the Minister of local government, Maj. General Kahinda Otafire advised the traders, amidst hearty laughter, to read the law on city lands for an immediate solution to their worries.
He was not willing to discuss the issue beyond this. Kisekka market is one of the oldest city markets, and was started by the traders.
