Razing of illegal structures at the at the Centenary Park in Kampala kicked off Monday morning amid tight security from UPDF elite force- SFC and police.
Police head General Kale Kayihura visited the ground-breaking of the demolition exercise after he committed to Parliament last week the process would be peaceful.
Bulldozers by press time were pulling down structures that have been housing restaurants and bars.
Centenary Park saga has ignited enmity between the business community and political class.
Sarah Kizito and her husband Amooti Kizito, who is a senior ruling NRM party member, have accused KCCA (KCCA) Executive Director, Jenifer Musisi of intending to suffocate their business.
President Yoweri Museveni at the close of last week ordered ‘Nalongo Estates’ to vacate Centenary Park willingly without being forcefully evicted.
The president ruled on the matter during a meeting at State House between the two warring parties, KCCA and ‘Nalongo Estates’.
However, Kayihura further stated that the Centenary park land saga was blown out of proportion by involving many authorities.
He further denied claims that he is backing the company managing Centenary Park to continue operating at the disputed area despite the expiry of its lease.
Speaking to NTV Monday morning, Frank Mwesigwa, Commander Kampala Metropolitan Police, said police supports government moves but also weighs.
“The President on Friday advised that it is done in a humane manner. The presence of SFC is not a surprise because we work together. We have joint operations.”
He added: “Our role is simple; keep law and order. Once you do something illegal, we come in. Some people think their rights are superior to others and that is why we come in to regulate.”
