Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has appeared to abandon his earlier push to restrict daytime drinking after Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba weighed in on the debate, saying entertainment businesses should have the freedom to decide their operating hours.
Balaam said Gen Muhoozi’s position had effectively settled the matter, adding that he could not go against the views of a senior leader who had spoken on the issue.
“If the boss has spoken out, I can’t oppose. His word is final. He says I should let you drink, even starting from 7am, so be it,” Balaam said.
The minister explained that authorities would now have to deal with the consequences of allowing people to enjoy alcohol at any time, while also ensuring that public safety is maintained.
He jokingly added that preparations would have to be made for people who may struggle while returning home after drinking, including improving road pavements.
Balaam had earlier announced restrictions stopping bars, malwa joints and other alcohol outlets from opening before 3pm on working days.
The minister argued that people should concentrate on work during the day instead of spending working hours drinking, saying the move was aimed at improving productivity.
His directive instructed local authorities and security agencies to enforce the restrictions, with businesses that ignored the order facing possible penalties.
The restrictions also included a ban on selling alcohol to people below 18 years and called for action against operators who violated the regulations.
However, Gen Muhoozi later challenged the idea of fixed opening and closing times for bars and clubs, saying business owners should determine their own operating schedules.
Muhoozi said the government’s main focus should be preventing violence and disorder in entertainment places rather than controlling when adults choose to drink.
He further stated that Ugandans should be free to enjoy themselves as long as they respect peace and security.
Gen Muhoozi’s comments quickly sparked public debate, with some people supporting his view on personal freedom while others raised concerns about the possible effects of excessive alcohol consumption.
The alcohol industry had also opposed Balaam’s earlier directive, arguing that blanket restrictions could hurt legitimate businesses while failing to address illegal alcohol trade.
The Uganda Alcohol Industry Association called for a more balanced approach that targets irresponsible drinking and unlicensed sellers instead of imposing strict hours on all operators.
Balaam’s latest remarks show a shift from enforcing strict drinking hours to accepting a more flexible approach following Gen Muhoozi’s intervention.
The debate has highlighted the challenge of balancing public health concerns, business interests and individual freedoms in Uganda’s entertainment sector.
As the discussion continues, attention remains on how authorities will handle alcohol regulation while responding to concerns about safety, productivity and responsible behaviour.
The exchange between the two leaders has once again placed Gen Muhoozi’s influence in national discussions under the spotlight, with many Ugandans following how the matter develops.
