President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed security officers and Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) to avoid unnecessarily interfering with Ugandans enjoying themselves in bars, clubs and other entertainment venues.
Speaking during a security address in Nakasero, Kampala, Museveni questioned why security personnel should disturb young Ugandans who are peacefully spending their evenings in entertainment spots.
The President affectionately referred to the young people as his “bazukulu”, insisting that they should be allowed to enjoy themselves provided they are not breaking the law or causing trouble.
Museveni’s position was reinforced by a message posted by Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba on his official X account.
Muhoozi stated that opening and closing hours for bars and clubs should be determined by their proprietors, while making it clear that fighting and violence would not be tolerated.
“Opening and closing hours for bars and clubs is up to the proprietors. What we will not tolerate is any form of fighting and violence. Otherwise, Ugandans are entitled to enjoy themselves.”
The comments come amid growing concerns over attempts by some local authorities to impose early closing hours on bars and other nightlife businesses.
Officials who support tighter restrictions have cited issues such as public safety, noise, alcohol-related disturbances and the need to maintain order in communities.
However, Museveni’s remarks suggest that security interventions should focus on actual cases of crime, violence and disorder rather than restricting peaceful entertainment activities.
The position could provide relief to bar owners, club operators, entertainment promoters and workers whose businesses depend heavily on Uganda’s nightlife economy.
At the same time, the President’s warning places responsibility on entertainment venue owners and their customers to ensure that their activities do not result in violence or other criminal behaviour.
The message from both Museveni and Muhoozi is therefore clear: Ugandans should be free to enjoy nightlife, but fighting, violence and criminal conduct will not be tolerated.
