A heavy deployment of Uganda Police Force (UPF) and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers has been witnessed in downtown Kampala following a tense protest staged by traders in Nakasero.
According to a report released on Thursday, July 31, the protest, which broke out near Zainabu-Aziiza Emporium and Hardware City buildings, was triggered by the government’s recent hike in taxes that traders say are unbearable.
Crowds of angry business owners closed their shops, poured into the streets, and chanted slogans denouncing the new tax measures.
Security forces moved swiftly to quell the unrest, with armed personnel seen patrolling major streets around the commercial hub and guarding entrances to affected buildings.
According to traders who spoke on condition of anonymity, the tax hikes have made it nearly impossible to stay in business.
Several others echoed the same frustration, describing the tax regime as “unfair,” “punitive,” and “designed to kill local enterprise.”
Many accused the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) of harassment and arbitrary enforcement, claiming that daily operations have been disrupted by constant checks and seizures.
The situation remained tense throughout the day, with police using anti-riot gear to disperse crowds and prevent further escalation. Tear gas was fired in some sections as security personnel attempted to block traders from regrouping.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango confirmed the deployment but said the situation was “under control.” He urged traders to engage authorities through dialogue rather than disrupting public order.
Meanwhile, political observers have weighed in, warning that such protests may become more frequent if economic grievances are not addressed.
They also questioned whether the government’s aggressive tax enforcement in the informal and SME sector is sustainable without clear consultation and support mechanisms.
But even as the standoff continues, traders have vowed not to reopen unless their concerns are addressed, setting the stage for further confrontation with the authorities.
