Leadership crisis rocks KACITA as ousted chairperson demands due process

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A leadership crisis has erupted within the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) following the controversial announcement of Issa Sekitto as the new acting chairperson, replacing Thadeus Musoke.

The announcement was made public on Tuesday morning through KACITA’s official social media platforms. It was signed by Acting Secretary General Timothy Baguma, who stated that Sekitto’s appointment was unanimously agreed upon during an Extraordinary Executive Board Meeting held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the association’s headquarters.

According to the statement, Sekitto will serve for a transitional period of one year. The board emphasised that his leadership is intended to provide stability and guide the association through critical reforms aimed at strengthening governance and better serving the wider business community.

In the same release, the board acknowledged Musoke’s contributions to the association, wishing him success in his newly launched political journey and commending his years of dedicated service.

However, Musoke has since challenged the legitimacy of the board’s decision, arguing that due process was not followed. He expressed disappointment over how he learned of his ousting through the media, and criticised the lack of transparency and respect for established procedures.

“We have always held retreats to discuss important leadership matters, including transitions. I am surprised and disappointed that this was done without my knowledge,” Musoke said. “This is not the way to treat someone who has served in senior leadership for many years.”

Musoke further revealed that he intends to call for an Extraordinary General Meeting to allow members to openly discuss the matter and determine the way forward. He insisted that he remains the legitimate chairperson until the correct procedures are followed.

“As it stands, I am still the lawful chairperson of KACITA. Any leadership change must be based on our constitution, not on surprise announcements,” he said, urging members to remain calm and united.

Efforts to get a comment from KACITA’s Chief Executive Officer, Abel Mwesige, were unsuccessful. When reached by reporters, Mwesige declined to speak on the matter, saying he would comment after an internal meeting scheduled for later in the day.

The sudden leadership change has stirred confusion among KACITA members and the business community, many of whom are awaiting clarification on the next steps. Some members have voiced concern over the internal wrangles, fearing that the conflict could affect the association’s ability to advocate effectively for traders’ rights and economic interests.

With both factions standing their ground, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether KACITA can resolve its internal disputes amicably or spiral further into division.

Observers say that how the association handles this leadership standoff may set a precedent for governance and accountability within one of Uganda’s most influential business bodies.