Muhoozi Challenges Balaam’s 3PM Bar Opening Directive

[Da Dona]

Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has appeared to challenge the government’s directive restricting bars and other alcohol-selling establishments from opening before 3 p.m. on working days.

The development follows a mid-August directive by Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi ordering local authorities to enforce new regulations aimed at curbing early-morning drinking and its associated social problems.

Under the directive, bars, malwa joints and other establishments selling alcohol were prohibited from opening before 3 p.m. on working days. Local leaders and security agencies were instructed to ensure compliance, with repeated violations potentially leading to closure.

The ministry said the measures were intended to discourage early-morning drinking, tackle idleness, improve productivity and reduce problems associated with excessive alcohol consumption, including family-related challenges and crime.

The directive also required strict enforcement of the legal prohibition on selling alcohol to persons below 18 years of age, with offenders facing arrest and prosecution. It further called for regulation of betting operations.

However, on August 31, Gen. Muhoozi appeared to take a different position on bar operating hours.
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“Opening and closing hours for bars and clubs is up to the proprietors. What we will not tolerate is any form of fighting and violence. Otherwise, Ugandans are entitled to enjoy themselves,” Muhoozi posted.​

Minister Barugahara responded directly to the CDF, saying: “Order taken Chairman with utmost respect.”

The exchange has raised questions over the practical enforcement of the earlier 3 p.m. restriction, with Muhoozi’s statement placing emphasis on the discretion of bar and club proprietors, provided their establishments remain peaceful and free from violence.

The minister’s response has also fuelled perceptions that the CDF’s position could supersede or soften the earlier restrictions, although no formal announcement cancelling the Local Government Ministry’s directive has been issued in the exchange.

The debate comes amid mixed reactions to the alcohol regulations. While some local leaders and residents have backed restrictions on early-morning drinking, arguing that they could improve productivity and reduce social problems, bar owners and other operators have raised concerns about the impact on their businesses and livelihoods.

The contrasting positions highlight a broader debate within government over how best to regulate alcohol consumption—whether through fixed operating hours or by allowing businesses greater flexibility while focusing enforcement on underage drinking, violence and other offences.

For now, the key question remains whether the 3 p.m. opening restriction remains fully enforceable across the country or whether authorities will adopt a more flexible approach consistent with Muhoozi’s position.​