Is it accountability or political scapegoating? Kampala residents weigh in on Kisaka’s dismissal
The public reaction ranges from applause for the President's decisive action to criticism, with some viewing Kisaka's removal as a case of political scapegoating.
The recent dismissal of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka has sparked widespread debate among Kampala’s residents and workers, following the President’s decision to remove her after the Kiteezi Landfill disaster.
The public reaction ranges from applause for the President’s decisive action to criticism, with some viewing Kisaka’s removal as a case of political scapegoating.
“I support the President’s decision. We’ve seen how poorly the city’s services have been managed, and the landfill disaster was the last straw. People need to be held accountable,” said Julius Mwesigwa, a boda boda rider in Kampala “If Kisaka was the leader, she should take responsibility.”
However, some, like Sharon Namutebi, a shop owner in downtown, feel the decision might be too harsh.
“Kisaka hasn’t been in office for that long. Most of these issues, including the Kiteezi mess, have been going on for years. I’m not sure firing her solves the bigger problem.”
Taxi driver Peter Musoke echoed that sentiment, adding, “I’ve lived in Kampala for over 20 years, and these problems go beyond one person. The entire KCCA system is failing us. Dismissing Kisaka won’t magically fix the roads or the garbage problems.”
Expert Opinion
Urban governance expert Dr. Samuel Kiggundu offered a broader perspective on the situation.
“While it’s understandable that the public demands accountability, it’s important to recognize that Kisaka’s dismissal alone won’t address the structural issues plaguing KCCA. The city’s management has long struggled with inefficiency, corruption, and political interference. Removing individuals without addressing these root causes risks repeating the same cycle of crisis.”
A KCCA employee who requested anonymity expressed frustration with the decision. “It feels like a knee-jerk reaction. Kisaka was working to improve things, but she was met with challenges beyond her control. She’s being blamed for a situation that’s been mishandled for years.”
Despite the divided opinions, there is a shared sentiment across Kampala that deeper reforms are needed.
“The firing shouldn’t stop with Kisaka. If we want to see change, we need an overhaul of the entire system,” said Doreen Namatovu, a vendor on the streets of Kampala. “We hope the new leadership will bring fresh ideas, but more importantly, real change.”
As the city waits for new appointments, the debate rages on about whether this shake-up will lead to lasting improvements or if Kisaka’s departure is merely a distraction from the long-standing challenges facing Kampala’s administration.
