UGANDA, Mukono | Real Muloodi News | In a distressing land title dispute, Florence Nantumbwe, a 100-year-old woman from Wanjeyo Village in Kimenyedde Sub County, Mukono District, is living in fear after surviving an attempted arson attack on her home over the weekend.
The widow of Yonasaani Kukula-kwetta believed to be 109 years old, awoke on a Sunday morning to the acrid smell of fuel.
Upon investigating, she found a five-litre jerry can of gasoline, scattered matchsticks, and a long, thick cotton thread soaked in petrol on her veranda.
Living alone in her house, Nantumbwe attributes these life-threatening events to an ongoing and protracted land title dispute with another family. This family also claims a portion of her approximately six-acre land.
Fearing for her life, Nantumbwe quickly alerted local leaders, who subsequently informed the police. She suspects the family of Lawrence Buule to be behind the threats, alleging that Buule has persistently threatened to take her land, asserting that he purchased it from her son, who left the village over a decade ago.
Buule, a former village chairperson, is suspected of having used his position to manipulate land documents related to Nantumbwe’s property.
Nantumbwe’s residence is now under the protection of residents and patrolled by the police, especially during the nighttime.
Abubaker Bogere, a concerned neighbour who rushed to Nantumbwe’s home after the arson attempt, commented, “Those who attempted to burn the old woman’s house might have been deterred by the heavy rain that night. I urge the judicial officials handling this matter to expedite the process, as their decision may ultimately save her life.”
Jalia Nantale, the officer in charge of Kimenyedde Police Post, confirmed the attempted arson attack and noted that detectives have already visited Nantumbwe’s home, collecting several pieces of evidence.
She assured me that they were providing her with security to ensure her safety.
Conrad Mutyaba, Ms. Nantumbwe’s lawyer, suspects that the incidents are intended to divert attention from an ongoing court case related to the land dispute.
He emphasised that their primary goal is to secure justice for the elderly woman, and they are resolutely pursuing the matter.
Upon contacting Mr. Buule for a statement about the allegations against him, he declined to comment, stating that he would consult his lawyer before responding.
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