Written By | Peter Luzinda
Muhoozi accused leaders and public officials of failing to build proper drainage systems in the capital for more than four decades while allowing widespread construction in wetlands.
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KAMPALA
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has blamed decades of corruption, poor urban planning and destruction of wetlands for the persistent flooding crisis in Kampala, warning that those responsible will eventually face consequences.
In a strongly worded statement posted on X on Tuesday, Muhoozi accused leaders and public officials of failing to build proper drainage systems in the capital for more than four decades while allowing widespread construction in wetlands.
“You allow thieves to never build drainage systems in Kampala for 40 years, then you allow them to build in God’s natural drainage system…the wetlands! Why wouldn’t Kampala flood?” Muhoozi wrote.
The First Son went on to condemn what he described as the continued “stealing from Kampala,” declaring that such actions amount to betraying the country and its people.
“From now on stealing from Kampala will be equivalent to stealing from Jesus Christ! They will pay,” he added.
Muhoozi’s remarks come at a time when Kampala continues to grapple with severe flooding whenever heavy rains hit the city. Several areas across the capital have in recent months experienced submerged roads, stranded motorists, damaged property and disruptions to business operations following downpours.
Environmental experts and city authorities have repeatedly pointed to wetland encroachment, blocked drainage channels and unregulated urban development as some of the major causes of the floods.
Wetlands around Kampala have over the years been degraded by illegal construction projects, factories, residential settlements and commercial developments despite repeated warnings from environmental agencies.
Critics have long accused both local authorities and national leaders of failing to enforce environmental protection laws, allowing politically connected individuals and investors to occupy protected wetlands with little accountability.
Muhoozi’s statement has since triggered debate online, with some Ugandans supporting his call for accountability while others questioned why stronger action has not been taken against individuals accused of degrading the city’s natural drainage systems.
The outspoken military chief has increasingly used his social media platforms to comment on national issues ranging from governance and corruption to infrastructure and security matters, often drawing widespread public attention.
His latest comments are expected to further fuel discussions on Kampala’s growing environmental and infrastructure challenges as pressure mounts on authorities to find lasting solutions to the capital’s recurring floods.
Torch Media Africa
