Kampala lord mayor Erias Lukwago has warned the Kampala Capital City Authority’s new executive director, Sharifah Buzeki, to brace for political battles as she takes over the reins of the city authority.
Lukwago, during the inaugural ceremony of Buzeki on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the KCCA offices in Kampala, warned of the turbulent political landscape ahead of her and advised that if she wants to sail through, she should seek his guidance lest it claims her like her predecessors Dorothy Kisaka and her deputy David Luyimbazi .
“I’m not sure whether to congratulate you or sympathize with you. The position you’ve stepped into requires great caution, as it’s a complex role that demands a clear mind and a deep understanding of the political dynamics of the city—otherwise, it will swallow you up,” Lukwago warned.
He went on to say that while the position is highly desirable and hotly contested, it’s important to recognize the significant challenges it entails and the need to be a team player. Many great individuals have come and gone because they became entangled in the city’s political issues.
“If you are willing to work with some of us, we will teach you the ropes of the city and how not to be swallowed by it, but should you behave like some of your predecessors, I can assure you, it won’t end well like it has with others,” Lukwago said.
However, Ali Kasirye Nganda Mulayanyama, the mayor of Makindye Division, has criticized Lukwago, saying that he is the one constantly stirring political disputes in the city to hinder progress for his own personal political gain, rather than working towards the city’s growth.
“Lukwago warning and announcing a political storm at the inauguration ceremony of the new executive director before she sits in office is a clear indication that he has already planned and set traps for the new office bearers, and these statements should not be taken lightly as we head to the 2026 general elections; he is obviously laying strategy to fail that office,” Mulanyama said.
Mulanyama pointed out how during Jennifer Musisi tenure as KCCA ED, Lukwago frequently caused conflict with her, even taking the matter to court. He claimed that the executive director, akin to a permanent secretary, earned more than him, the head of KCCA, arguing that it was a deliberate attempt to marginalize him, despite being elected by the people.
“He never stopped running to the press or courts to fight Musisi, and now that he has started warning Buzeki, we should keep our eyes open. We need a new mayor who will allow for the development of the city,” Mulanyama added.
Buzeki, in her maiden inaugural speech, promised to tackle key challenges, including waste management which saw her predecessors fired;urban planning and public transportation. She also emphasized the need for digital public services, security, and fostering inclusivity.
