Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Nsubuga Balimwezo has once again found himself at the center of controversy, this time for nearly coming to blows with a radio presenter during a live broadcast. The dramatic incident unfolded on Friday evening, September 18, 2026, during a talk show on Radio Sapientia hosted by Francis Lubega, leaving listeners stunned and raising fresh questions about the Lord Mayor’s temperament.
The confrontation was triggered by a discussion regarding the controversial 60-acre KCCA garbage dumping site in Ddundu, Nakawuka. Balimwezo, who took office earlier this year after defeating his opponents in the Kampala Lord Mayor election, was explaining his efforts to dismantle alleged corruption cartels within the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). He claimed that senior officials had vested interests in the land and lamented that the authority’s legal department “has never won a single court case,” often resorting to consent judgments.
The atmosphere turned hostile when host Lubega questioned whether the Lord Mayor truly believed he could confront these powerful cartels and survive. Balimwezo responded with a fiery retort, referencing past attempts on his life: “Can anyone threaten me, even with bullets? A person who once tried to kill me ended up dead.” When Lubega replied, “Here he goes with his movies,” the Lord Mayor snapped. He rose from his seat, clenched his fists, and advanced toward the presenter, demanding an immediate apology.
“Apologise right now. Do I come here to shoot a film?” Balimwezo charged, standing menacingly over Lubega until the host withdrew his comment. The video feed, shared by the station, cut off shortly after the tense exchange. The incident highlights Balimwezo’s combative background; a former boxer and Nakawa Division mayor, he is known for celebrating his political victories with uppercuts and has previously spoken publicly about using his fighting skills in physical altercations. While his supporters view him as a tough leader willing to fight for the city, critics argue that such behavior undermines the dignity of the Lord Mayor’s office.