Traders threaten two-month strike over unresolved grievances

A tense atmosphere enveloped Kololo airstrip yesterday as traders stormed out of a meeting with President Museveni, with their frustrations boiling over in an unexpected turn of events.

The aftermath of the gathering left many disillusioned, with grievances left unaddressed and tempers flaring.

Mr John Kabanda, chairman of the Federation of Uganda's Traders Associations (FUTA), could not hold his dismay,

"After June 20, we will call for a strike to last two months, therefore stock food," he warned.

Thedeous Musoke, chairperson of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), expressed disappointment at the lack of progress during the meeting.

"We thought we may lose somewhere and win somewhere to balance the boat, but unfortunately, we have seen the president wasn't in his mood and was biased about our issues," Musoke lamented.

Despite the resumption of trading activities, the resolve among shop operators remains steadfast, unwilling to relent until tangible results emerge.

"By 20th June, this city will be on lockdown," echoed the sentiments of determined traders.

Jonathan Ntege, a taxation expert, underlined the issues, attributing the unrest to URA's failure to adequately train and sensitize traders on the new EFRIS system.

"This being a new system, there will be so many problems and mistakes these traders will make," Ntege explained.

The fate of Kampala's trading community hangs in the balance. With unresolved grievances fueling a growing sense of discontent, the stage is set for a showdown between traders and authorities, where actions may speak louder than words.