On March 20, agents representing Equity Bank took action to potentially seize a notable property belonging to flamboyant city businessman and socialite, Mr. Emmanuel Lwasa. The property in question, Club Tavern Kick, located in Masaka City along the Masaka-Mbarara highway, bears inscriptions indicating it as “Bank property for sale.” This move follows Mr. Lwasa’s alleged failure to meet financial obligations to the bank, amounting to close to Shs 600 million.
Mr. Lwasa, in a bid to salvage his property, has turned to President Museveni for assistance. Addressing the president during a fundraising event on March 21, Mr. Lwasa highlighted his support for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and his background as a former child soldier in the Luweero Bush war. He appealed for urgent intervention from President Museveni to prevent the loss of his property.
President Museveni, while not directly addressing Mr. Lwasa’s financial plight during the event, pledged a contribution of Shs200 million towards the construction of Lwengo Muslim District Headquarters and Health Center IV. He instructed his protocol team to look into Mr. Lwasa’s situation, indicating a potential willingness to assist.
Acknowledging the importance of community led initiatives like the construction project, President Museveni emphasized the need for stable incomes among the populace to facilitate such developments. He expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the Muslim community in undertaking projects for their own welfare and pledged support for such endeavors.
Furthermore, President Museveni underscored the NRM’s commitment to addressing the needs of Ugandans, noting the importance of listening to the party’s message on wealth creation. He commended the progress made by the people of Lwengo in embracing the NRM’s agenda, highlighting the party’s longstanding solutions to societal challenges.
Mr. Lwasa, known for his opulent lifestyle, is a member of the ruling NRM. Despite his financial struggles, he has been active in political circles, having contested the Masaka mayoral seat in the 2021 general elections. However, he faced defeat against the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, Florence Namayanja. Notably, Mr. Lwasa has previously sold off assets to finance NRM campaigns in his area.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Details | Club Tavern Kick, a three-storeyed glass building, constructed in 2015. |
| Location: Kyabakuza Township along the Masaka-Mbarara highway. | |
| Features: 21 self-contained rooms, modern artwork, ample parking space. | |
| Financial Issue | Mr. Lwasa owes Equity Bank close to Shs600 million, risking property seizure. |
| Presidential Plea | Mr. Lwasa appeals to President Museveni for intervention during a fundraising event. |
| President’s Response | President Museveni pledges support and instructs his team to investigate. |
| Political Engagement | Mr. Lwasa, an NRM member, has been active in political campaigns in his area. |
