President Yoweri Museveni has instructed the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Minsa Kabanda, to study a proposal seeking to transform the historic City Square into a modern commercial complex.

In a letter dated 30 August 2026, the President said he had received a proposal from businessman Hajji Hassan Bulwadda to develop the approximately two acres at City Square into an “eco-friendly real-estate complex” featuring a hotel, shopping mall and other commercial facilities powered by solar energy.

“Study the proposal, discuss with Kampala Capital City Authority and come back to me,” Museveni directed the minister. The letter was also copied to the Vice President and the Prime Minister.

The proposal has triggered sharp resistance from opposition leaders, KCCA officials and members of the public who view City Square as one of the last remaining public green spaces in the city centre.

Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi recalled past controversial land giveaways, including the UBC land at Nakasero and the Naguru-Nakawa housing estate, and warned against converting the square into a private business structure.

KCCA Executive Secretary for Planning and Civil Works Godfrey Luyombya stated that City Square is public land held in trust for the people of Kampala and rejected any formal takeover.

Others have linked the plan to previous developments such as the Nakivubo Channel area, arguing that commercialisation of open spaces has contributed to flooding and the loss of public amenities. Some residents have instead called for the square to be turned into a city forest with more trees.

City Square, also known as Constitutional Square, has for years been under security occupation, limiting its full public use. The latest proposal has now reignited debate over the future of public land in Kampala’s central business district.