Mbarara: Row Erupts Between Municipal Council Authorities and Bar Operators

Owners and operator of bars and entertainment places in Mbarara are protesting the decision by the municipal council authorities to register their business places.

Recently, the Mbarara District Security Committee chaired by Resident District Commissioner came to an agreement that all pubs and entertainment centers be registered and that all bars and entertainment centers must hire security guards, for security reasons.

One of the many operators our reporter spoke to, Juliet Ndyagumanawe, who operates a bar in Kakooba division says the resolutions were hurriedly passed without consulting them, insisting that the most important issue is not registering businesses, but being vigilant and responding to emergencies in time when contacted.

However, Jaffar Magyezi, the Mbarara District Police Commander says they are already engaging the local council leaders to enforce the resolution as soon as possible, explaining that it is good idea aimed at getting rid of criminals who usually take advantage of the security gaps at such premises to terrorize unsuspecting people.