Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has backed down from his earlier efforts to restrict daytime drinking, following remarks by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba that Ugandans should be free to drink and party at any time.
Barugahara said Muhoozi’s position had effectively brought his attempt to stop bars and other alcohol outlets from operating during morning working hours to an end.
“If the boss has spoken out, I cannot repeat his orders. A leader’s order is final. If he said that I should let you drink, be it from 7 am in the morning to even, go ahead and drink. The order is taken,” Barugahara said.
The minister also appeared to acknowledge that unrestricted drinking could come with consequences, saying authorities would have to prepare for the effects of the directive.
“He also ordered for road pavements to be made so that they don’t fall down when walking back home. We are also working on that,” he added.
Barugahara further told Ugandans to enjoy what he described as their freedom, saying the country now has a leader who wants citizens to have the freedom to drink and do what they want.
“This is your country; enjoy it. You have a leader who wants you drunk…he wants you to have freedom to do whatever you want. You should support them,” he said.