By KT Reporter
Kitgum Assistant Resident District Commissioner Joseph Okidi has ordered all nightclubs in Kitgum Municipality to cease hosting strip dance shows, commonly referred to as “Kimansulo.”
Okidi stated that the District Security Committee has been receiving ongoing intelligence reports about nightclubs holding strip dances, typically late at night around 2 AM. He emphasized that strip dancing is prohibited under Ugandan law and undermines the moral values of the Acholi culture.
During an emergency meeting with nightclub managers at the RDC’s boardroom on Thursday, Okidi warned that any nightclub found continuing to host strip dance shows would face the risk of being closed indefinitely.
He assured the managers that the security committee would closely monitor the situation and take action against establishments that do not comply. “The objective is to preserve the cultural heritage of the Acholi people and ensure that nightlife in Kitgum Municipality aligns with local norms and expectations,” he explained. “Nightclub owners and managers must adapt to this new directive and find alternative ways to entertain their clients without compromising local cultural values.”
He clarified that while strip dancing is banned, other musical shows are still allowed. Okidi also pointed out that hosting nude shows or strip dances in disco halls violates the Anti-Pornography Act.
Those organising such events risk arrest, prosecution, and confiscation of their music equipment. According to Section 13(2) of the Anti-Pornography Act, if found guilty in a court of law, offenders could face fines not exceeding 500 currency points or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
Joel Akena, the Central Division Assistant Town Clerk, expressed his disappointment regarding reports of strip dances being held in nightclubs, describing the situation as “very bad.”
He indicated that his office would work closely with security to ensure the discontinuation of these performances in the Central Division and throughout Kitgum Municipality.
Akena warned that nightclubs found participating in strip dances risk having their trading licenses revoked for failing to comply with existing laws. He also urged nightclub owners to install soundproof systems in their venues to prevent music from disturbing the rest of their neighbours.
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