Government was right on City Square decision
Mwesigwa says Uganda needs more infrastructure, more private-sector investment and more modern urban spaces. However, development must be guided by principles that protect the public interest, including the preservation of places that hold historical, cultural and civic significance.
Mwesigwa says Constitutional Square is one such place. It occupies a special position in the story of our nation and has long served as a gathering point for public events, national celebrations and expressions of civic life.
By Isaac Mwesigwa
The decision by Cabinet and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to retain Constitutional Square as a heritage site was the right one and deserves the support of all Ugandans.
In recent months, the future of Constitutional Square generated considerable public debate.
While some argued that the land could be put to alternative commercial use, the weight of public opinion favoured preserving the site as a national heritage landmark. In choosing preservation over commercial redevelopment, government demonstrated that not every valuable asset can or should be measured in financial terms
As both a lawyer and businessman, I understand the importance of investment, urban development and economic growth.
Uganda needs more infrastructure, more private-sector investment and more modern urban spaces. However, development must be guided by principles that protect the public interest, including the preservation of places that hold historical, cultural and civic significance.
It represents more than land in a prime location. It is part of Uganda's collective memory and identity.
The debate surrounding the square was therefore not simply about development versus preservation.
Rather, it was about striking the right balance between the two. Mature societies recognise that economic progress and heritage conservation are not mutually exclusive. Indeed, some of the world's greatest cities are those that have successfully protected their historical landmarks while embracing modernisation and growth.
The government's decision reflects that understanding. Kampala can continue to develop and attract investment without sacrificing sites that possess unique historical and cultural value. There remain vast opportunities across the city and the country for investors to contribute to economic transformation while respecting heritage assets that belong to all Ugandans.
Equally important is the manner in which the decision was reached. The public expressed its views forcefully and passionately. Different stakeholders presented competing perspectives. Government listened to those viewpoints before making a final determination.
President Museveni's decision also sends a broader message: that leadership involves listening to citizens and weighing issues beyond immediate economic considerations. In this case, preserving Constitutional Square acknowledges that national heritage carries value that cannot be quantified on a balance sheet.
As a businessman, I appreciate the role of investment in creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities. As a lawyer, I appreciate the importance of protecting public interests and preserving national assets for future generations. These two objectives should not be seen as contradictory.
A country that respects its history is better positioned to pursue sustainable development because it understands where it has come from and where it wishes to go.
The discussion surrounding Constitutional Square has also highlighted the growing engagement of Ugandans in matters of public policy. Citizens took an active interest in an issue affecting their city and country. Such participation should be welcomed and encouraged because it contributes to stronger institutions and better governance.
Ultimately, government made the correct decision. Preserving Constitutional Square safeguards an important piece of Uganda's heritage while reminding us that development is most meaningful when it respects the values and history of the people it is intended to serve.
Some decisions are measured not by what is built, but by what is wisely preserved. This is one of them.
The writer is a lawyer and businessman