Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has commented on Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s rejection of his directive restricting bars and entertainment places from opening before 3pm, saying Ugandans should respect the position of their leaders.

Balaam, who had earlier ordered bars, clubs and other alcohol outlets to delay opening until afternoon hours on working days, said Gen Muhoozi’s intervention had changed the direction of the debate.

The minister said that once a senior leader had expressed his views on the matter, there was no need for him to continue pushing a different position.

“If the boss has spoken out, I can’t oppose. His word is final,” Balaam said while reacting to Gen Muhoozi’s remarks.

He added that Ugandans now had the freedom to make their own choices, saying the country’s leadership had given citizens room to enjoy themselves responsibly.

“You have a leader who wants you drunk… he wants you to have freedom to do whatever you want in your country,” Balaam stated.

Balaam’s comments came after Gen Muhoozi said that bar and nightclub owners should decide their own opening and closing hours instead of following government-imposed restrictions.

The Chief of Defence Forces argued that the key issue should not be when people drink but ensuring that entertainment places remain peaceful and free from violence.

Gen Muhoozi’s remarks sparked widespread discussions, especially because they came shortly after Balaam’s directive had attracted attention across the country.

The minister had earlier said the restriction was intended to encourage people to focus on work during the day and reduce problems associated with excessive alcohol consumption.

His order directed local governments and security agencies to ensure compliance, warning that businesses that ignored the directive could face consequences.

The directive affected several entertainment businesses, including bars, clubs and traditional alcohol-selling places such as malwa joints.

However, alcohol industry players opposed the restrictions, arguing that they could negatively affect licensed businesses and employees who depend on the sector.

The Uganda Alcohol Industry Association called for a balanced approach, saying the government should focus on illegal operators rather than placing broad restrictions on all businesses.

Following Gen Muhoozi’s comments, Balaam appeared to soften his earlier position, saying authorities would now focus on handling the outcomes of the decision.

He joked that if people were allowed to drink freely, preparations would also be needed to support those who may struggle while heading home.

The debate has created mixed reactions among Ugandans, with some supporting freedom for businesses while others expressing concern about the effects of unrestricted drinking.

Supporters of Gen Muhoozi’s position argue that adults should have the freedom to make personal choices as long as they do not disturb public order.

Others believe authorities should maintain stronger controls to address alcohol-related challenges affecting communities.

The disagreement between Balaam’s earlier directive and Gen Muhoozi’s position has become one of the most discussed public debates in recent days.

It has also highlighted the challenge of balancing individual freedoms, business interests and government responsibility in regulating entertainment activities.

For now, attention remains on how local authorities will handle alcohol regulation after the conflicting positions and whether new guidelines will be introduced in the future.