Four concerned Ugandans including MP Karim Masaba, have taken government agencies and top fuel companies to court over what they call illegal fuel stations in Kampala.
They are suing the Attorney General, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and seven companies—Stabex, TotalEnergies, Vivo Energy, Mogas, Gas Petro, Texol, and Nesta Fuel.
They say that many stations were built without following the law, including the Physical Planning Act, the Building Control Act, the Petroleum Supply Act, and the National Environment Act.
They have noted that some stations are dangerously close to schools, markets, churches, mosques, and crowded residential areas, putting people at risk of toxic fumes, noise, and fire outbreaks.
The disputed stations are in areas such as Bunga, Lubiri Hill, Kyebando, Nsambya, Wandegeya, Munyonyo, Namugongo, Namasuba, and Rubaga.
The petitioners blame the regulators for failing to enforce safety and planning rules, warning that Kampala could face another tragedy like the Kigogwa fuel truck explosion or the Kiteezi fire incident.
They want court to stop further approvals, demolish the disputed stations, and award them Shs 500 million in damages.
Report by: Betty Zziwa
