Uganda has directed bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments to remain closed until 3 p.m. on working days as part of a government crackdown on early-morning drinking.
The directive was issued by Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara on Tuesday, August 11, and requires local authorities to enforce restrictions on the operating hours of alcohol outlets.
The measure is intended to discourage people from spending their mornings drinking instead of working and to address social problems associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
According to the Minister, such problems include idleness, family difficulties and rising crime in some communities.
Under the directive, bars, Malwa joints and other establishments that sell alcohol are not permitted to open before 3 p.m. on working days.
“Bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments should not open before 3:00 p.m. on working days,” the statement said.
However, enforcement of the restriction will be subject to applicable national laws, licensing requirements and lawful regulations issued by local governments.
Mr Barugahara warned that operators who repeatedly disregard lawful directives on operating hours could face closure.
He also directed local authorities to take appropriate enforcement action against persistent offenders in accordance with the law.
“Local leaders should take the lead in discouraging early-morning alcohol consumption and work with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure that bars and alcohol outlets do not operate in a manner that encourages people to spend their mornings drinking instead of working,” the statement added.
The directive forms part of government efforts to regulate alcohol consumption and address the social and economic challenges associated with excessive drinking.
Source: citinews
