Big Story: KACITA Chairman Faces Exit Over NRM Support, NUP Loyalists Determined To Throw Him Out

By Swift News 

A storm is brewing within the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) following attempts to oust acting Chairman Thadeus Musoke in what many have now labeled a politically-motivated power grab masked as administrative procedure.

The controversy ignited on August 4, 2025, when KACITA General Secretary Timothy Baguma issued a surprise statement announcing Musoke’s removal. Citing “political involvement” as the main reason, Baguma declared Hajji Isa Sekitto—widely known as a National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter—the new acting chairperson for a one-year transitional period.

However, scrutiny of KACITA’s constitution, which Swift News has reviewed, reveals no clause barring leaders from political participation, nor any provision allowing dismissal based solely on party affiliation. In fact, Article 21 clearly defines the grounds and procedures for removal—none of which apply to Musoke’s case.

Political Bias Or Genuine Concern?

“This is a personal attack disguised as policy,” an insider in KACITA told Swift News. “There is no clause in our constitution that allows for the expulsion of a leader due to political association, supporting NRM shouldn’t be a crime.”

Indeed, Musoke’s political journey is no secret. In 2021, he contested for Parliament under the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) and faced no backlash. But his recent bid for Lord Mayor on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket has sparked fury from opposition-leaning factions within KACITA.

Observers say this suggests a clear double standard. “When he ran under ANT, nobody said a word. Now because he’s with NRM—the ruling government—his opponents are out with pitchforks,” said one long-time member, requesting anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Many in the business community are asking a tough but fair question: if traders wish to remain in dialogue with the government on key business policies, how can they attack one of their own for being aligned with that very government?

“KACITA is supposed to be a bridge to government, not a battleground of political rivalry,” said another member.

Despite the turmoil, Musoke remains focused on due process and upholding the rule of law within the organization. Over the weekend, he convened an Extraordinary General Meeting at KACITA’s Kampala offices. Members unanimously resolved to go for a dialogue and incase it all fails, then they will hold fresh elections on December 5, 2025, during the association’s end-of-year celebrations.

It will be the first time in years that KACITA members will directly elect their leaders—a move Musoke hopes will bring transparency and stability.

“This association belongs to the traders, not to political factions or media opportunists,” Musoke said.

Police Involvement & Threats Reported

Adding a serious tone to the dispute, Musoke has reported threats made against him to the police, naming Sekitto and several associates. The matter is now under active investigation.

While tensions run high, Musoke has repeatedly called for calm and dialogue. “If those fighting me truly have the traders’ interests at heart, let’s resolve these issues internally. Public attacks only serve to destabilize KACITA and threaten its future,” he stated.

What’s At Stake For Traders?

For years, KACITA has played a crucial role as a lobby group for traders, engaging government on pressing issues such as taxation, import/export regulations, power tariffs, and trade policies.

Now, with leadership under attack and factions at odds, many fear the association could lose its voice—and with it, the ability to defend the interests of Uganda’s vast trader community.

“If KACITA collapses under leadership confusion, small traders will have no structured channel to engage government on their pressing challenges,” warned one concerned member.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: this is more than an internal squabble. The future of KACITA, and the voice of Uganda’s trading class, hangs in the balance.

Stay tuned; Swift News will continue to follow this story and bring you timely updates as events unfold.