Massive 20-Hour Traffic Jam Paralyzes Kampala-Masaka Highway Amid Museveni’s Campaign in Mpigi

Motorists were stranded for hours along the Kampala-Masaka Highway in Mpigi, Uganda, on Monday, December 2025. A major traffic jam disrupted travel across the route. The congestion coincided with President Yoweri Museveni holding a public campaign in the area. Commuters and opposition figures expressed frustration over the delays.

Opposition leader Bobi Wine blamed the president for the gridlock. Photos showed Museveni sitting on the highway while addressing a large crowd. Wine called the situation “unacceptable” and said a normal two-hour journey took close to 20 hours. He urged leaders to treat citizens as people, not slaves. Wine also warned of dangers for those needing urgent medical care during the congestion.

The Ministry of Works and Transport rejected claims that Museveni caused the traffic jam. Roads Minister Edward Katumba Wamala said no road closures were made for the campaign. He blamed motorist indiscipline, including blocked intersections, lane invasions, and failure to follow traffic rules.

Wamala said the Uganda Police Traffic Directorate deployed aerial and ground officers to clear gridlock points. Traffic flow gradually improved as authorities worked to restore order. The ministry reminded the public that festive season congestion is common. They urged drivers to follow traffic rules to reduce delays.

The incident sparked heated debate online. Critics called for better planning during political campaigns. Citizens urged leaders to avoid blocking major roads. Museveni’s campaign drew large crowds but highlighted challenges of balancing public events with traffic management.

Authorities have urged road users to remain disciplined and respect regulations, especially during the festive season. The episode shows the need for careful coordination between political events and transport management to ensure smooth travel for all.