Local leaders have also been directed to work with security agencies and enforcement teams to discourage early-morning alcohol consumption, which the ministry says contributes to idleness, family problems and rising crime in communities.
The Ministry of Local Government has directed bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments not to open before 3pm on working days, in a move aimed at curbing early-morning drinking and promoting productivity.
The directive, issued on Tuesday by Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, warns that alcohol outlets that repeatedly defy lawful operating-hour directives should be closed and their operators subjected to appropriate enforcement action.
The measure is subject to applicable national laws, licensing requirements and lawful local government regulations.
The ministry has tasked LC5 chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors and council speakers with taking personal leadership in enforcing the directive in their respective jurisdictions.
Establishments found repeatedly violating the requirement should face appropriate sanctions, the ministry said.
The ministry has also directed local governments to regulate the operating hours of betting companies in their jurisdictions in accordance with existing laws and regulations, with the aim of protecting communities, particularly young people, from harmful practices associated with excessive betting.
