Former Cabinet minister Prof. Tarsis Kabwegyere has criticized Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba over his recent comments encouraging Ugandans to enjoy nightlife, including drinking until morning.
Speaking on BFM Radio in Bushenyi, Kabwegyere questioned the message being sent by a senior public figure who is widely viewed as having presidential ambitions.
“Uganda today has the highest alcohol consumption per capita in the whole of Africa and we are fifth in the world. Now here comes a person who wants to be president and he is encouraging people to drink more. Where are you leading the people? Where are you taking the nation?” Kabwegyere said.
His remarks followed Kainerugaba’s August 31 statements on X that bar and nightclub owners should determine their own operating hours and that Ugandans should be free to enjoy themselves.
Kainerugaba also said Ugandans could dance and drink until morning and that women should be free to dress as they wished.
Kabwegyere argued that leaders should promote responsible lifestyles and consider the wider health and social consequences of their public messages.
The criticism drew a response from the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU). Daudi Kabanda, head of the PLU Chairman’s Office, accused Kabwegyere of having political motives and linked him to Odrek Rwabwogo.
The exchange has added to the growing debate over alcohol consumption, nightlife regulations, personal freedom and the responsibilities of political leaders in Uganda.
Kabwegyere also acknowledged that Uganda faces serious challenges related to alcohol consumption, although the specific claim that Uganda ranks fifth globally has not been independently verified in the statements above.
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