The High Court has issued a significant ruling instructing the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to implement administrative, legislative, and other necessary actions to enforce the renaming of streets, roads, and public spaces. Justice Musa Ssekaana’s decision stressed that the new names should foster community harmony, unity, and reflect Uganda’s culture, heritage, and values.
The case, involving John Ssempebwa and two others against KCCA, originated from an online petition launched in June 2020 during Uganda’s Heroes Day celebrations. The petition, supported by thousands of Ugandans, demanded the renaming of streets and landmarks bearing the names of colonial figures. It was directed to President Museveni, Parliament, KCCA, and other relevant bodies, urging the removal of names honoring colonial rulers and military figures like Sir Henry Colville, Captain Fredrick Lugard, the King’s African Rifles, Gen Dewinton, and Col Ternan.
The petition contended that these individuals were linked to atrocities, including pillage, rape, and murder, during British colonial rule in Uganda. It argued that colonial names should be replaced with those of notable Ugandans or other deserving figures, determined through a consultative process involving a respected and representative group of eminent Ugandans. The petitioners suggested that colonial names belong in museums of history rather than on public streets.
In his ruling, Justice Ssekaana acknowledged the applicants’ concerns about the persistence of colonial-era names, even 62 years after Uganda gained independence. He advocated for adopting names that recognize individuals who have significantly contributed to Uganda’s post-independence transformation. This decision represents a pivotal moment in Uganda’s efforts toward decolonization.
The next critical phase involves ensuring that KCCA and other Ugandan authorities fully implement the ruling. However, some note that renaming streets and landmarks tied to colonial figures may face challenges, given the strong Uganda-UK relationship and the substantial annual aid provided by the British government.