Kampala Lord Mayor Zahara Luyirika Balimwezo has warned NUP councillors at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) against what he described as reckless criticism of KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki and other technical officials.Balimwezo reportedly issued the warning during a meeting with the 18-member NUP councillors’ caucus, urging them to prioritise discipline, cooperation and service delivery over political confrontations.He said Kampala’s problems could not be solved through public disputes between elected leaders and technical officials, stressing that the two sides must work together to improve services for city residents.The Lord Mayor also cautioned councillors against making statements without proper research, arguing that such remarks could damage both NUP’s credibility and KCCA’s effectiveness.
His approach contrasts with the frequent clashes between former Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and KCCA technical officials during his tenure.Meanwhile, tensions have also emerged between Balimwezo and NRM councillors over the selection of KCCA representatives to boards of universities and other government institutions. The councillors have reportedly petitioned the Attorney General seeking clarification on the Lord Mayor’s authority to make such appointments.The developments come amid wider political tensions within KCCA as elected leaders continue to negotiate their roles while addressing Kampala’s challenges in waste management, infrastructure and urban planning.
