'We Need Alcohol to Work': Mubende Residents Reject 3pm Bar Opening Directive

What the report says

Residents of Mubende Municipality, especially those in Kibaati Cell, have rejected a government directive that bars should only open from 3pm. The policy was issued by Minister for Local Government Balaam Barugahara as part of efforts to curb excessive alcohol consumption, but local people say it could interfere with their work, income and everyday routines.

According to Nile Post, several residents argued that alcohol is tied to their livelihoods in different ways. Some said they rely on bar-related businesses for earnings, while others claimed drinking earlier in the day helps them gain confidence, interact with customers, or prepare for work. One resident with a disability also said an earlier drinking time gives him more daylight to return home safely. Others asked for a midday opening time instead of 3pm.

Village vice chairperson Vincent Kamukama backed the residents, warning that the directive could hurt people who depend on the alcohol trade and have no other source of income. The article also quotes Mubende Municipality Assistant Resident District Commissioner Benon Tibyasa, who said the security committee would meet stakeholders to discuss how the rule should be implemented and urged residents to comply while consultations continue.

The dispute reflects a broader tension between public health-style alcohol controls and the economic dependence some communities have on bars and related trade.