Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Minsa Kabanda has reportedly hit back at Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo over his opposition to the proposed redevelopment of City Square, with the minister questioning the mayor’s influence in matters concerning the capital city .

Kabanda is reported to have told Balimwezo that he should not present himself as more powerful or influential than he actually is, arguing that important decisions concerning Kampala are handled through established government and KCCA structures rather than by one individual.

The reported exchange comes at a time when the proposed redevelopment of City Square, also known as Constitution Square, has become a major subject of public debate in Kampala. Businessman Hajj Hassan Bulwadda has proposed developing about two acres of the space into an eco-friendly commercial complex featuring facilities including a hotel and shopping mall.

President Yoweri Museveni directed Kabanda on August 30 to study Bulwadda’s proposal, consult the Kampala Capital City Authority and report back on the feasibility of the project. The directive was copied to Vice President Jessica Alupo and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.

However, Balimwezo has openly rejected the proposal, arguing that City Square is one of Kampala’s remaining public open spaces and should be protected because of its environmental, recreational, historical and emergency-response importance.

In comments reported by Daily Monitor, Balimwezo argued that cities require open spaces where people can gather during emergencies such as fires and other disasters. He also said the trees and open ground at the square help reduce dust and air pollution and allow rainwater to soak into the ground.

Balimwezo has also referred to the historical status of the square and a 2007 protective order, arguing that the space should not be turned into a private commercial development. He has called for the government to maintain City Square as a protected urban park and heritage site.

It is against this background that Kabanda is reported to have questioned Balimwezo’s authority to make strong pronouncements on the proposal before the official consultation process has been completed.

According to the remarks supplied in the report, Kabanda argued that the President’s letter directing her to study the proposal was not copied to Balimwezo. She reportedly used this point to challenge his decision to publicly comment on the matter before receiving formal communication through the relevant channels.

Kabanda is also reported to have reminded Balimwezo that decisions involving KCCA are not supposed to depend on the Lord Mayor alone. She reportedly stressed that the wider council and other responsible institutions have roles to play before any major decision concerning the city can be taken.