In a heated meeting, legislators have issued a one-week ultimatum to Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and Hajat Sharifah Buzeki, Executive Director of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), to resolve their internal disputes and present a unified response to the queries raised in the December 2024 Auditor General’s report.
The ultimatum was announced by Allan Mayanja, Vice Chairperson of the Committee of Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises.
The meeting, which brought together officials from KCCA, highlighted the ongoing tensions between Lukwago and the technical wing of the Authority. Lukwago expressed his frustration at being sidelined in crucial discussions, stating that the responses provided to the audit queries did not involve his input.
He argued that proceeding without his consultation could jeopardize his position as Lord Mayor, potentially leading to impeachment.
Lukwago also criticized the Office of the Auditor General for not providing him with a copy of the KCCA audit report, which he claimed was essential for understanding the context of the queries.
In response, KCCA’s Executive Director defended the process, explaining that the recommendations from the Auditor General were handled by KCCA’s public accounts committee and discussed collaboratively by both the technical and political wings of the Authority.
However, Lukwago insisted that he would only continue with the meeting if allowed to critique KCCA’s responses, which he felt were inadequate. This standoff led to Mukono South MP Fred Kayondo questioning why KCCA had normalized the exclusion of Lukwago from significant activities.
The ongoing bickering prompted Bukimbiri County MP Eddie Kwizera to move a motion for the adjournment of the meeting, allowing both sides to harmonize their responses before appearing before the committee again. The motion was passed, leading to the meeting’s adjournment.
Ntenjeru South MP Patrick Nsanja emphasized the need for collaboration between the Executive Director and the Lord Mayor to ensure the development of Kampala. As the deadline looms, the pressure is on KCCA to resolve its internal conflicts and present a united front.
