The wrangle for control of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) has taken a new turn after Thaddeus Musoke Naggenda unveiled a fresh 20-member executive, cutting ties with almost all members of the previous leadership.
Only patron Godfrey Kirumira survived the reshuffle, as Musoke dismissed the rest of the old guard and declared the camp led by rival Issa Sekitto “illegal” under KACITA’s constitution.
“Those who choose to work with that committee will be doing so at their own risk,” he warned during a press briefing at the association’s headquarters in Kampala.
The power struggle, which has paralysed KACITA for months, stems from Musoke’s dismissal by the former executive on accusations of engaging in politics a breach he denies. Since then, both Musoke and Sekitto have claimed the chairmanship, each forming their own executive teams.
Musoke’s unveiling was witnessed by KACITA founding member Livingston Zziwa, who has been appointed as mediator between the warring sides. Zziwa cautioned that the dispute was damaging the association’s work and urged reconciliation.
Sekitto has also recently insisted he is in full control of KACITA, but Musoke rejected the claim, calling on traders to “unite and restore normal activities.”
The newly recognised leadership, now headed by elected chairman David Kintu Segirinya, has pledged to revitalise the traders’ body. Segirinya also issued a stern warning to those planning a protest on August 17, saying the “old leadership” would not be allowed to reclaim power.
With the association’s offices now reopened, Musoke invited members to present their grievances directly to him, expressing hope that “constructive dialogue will replace factional battles.”
