UGANDA, Hoima | Real Muloodi News | The Hoima High Court has canceled a 16-hectare land title previously registered under Ms. Lillian Barugaha, a resident of Kyakaliba Village in Busiisi, Hoima City. The ruling, delivered by Justice Jesse Byaruhanga on December 11, 2024, declared that the land certificate for Plot 36, Bugahya Block 19, Kyakaliba, had been fraudulently obtained.
The judgment followed a civil suit filed in 2009 by Yesero Mugenyi against Barugaha and three other defendants. The case was originally lodged at the Masindi High Court but was transferred to the Hoima High Court after its establishment. Justice Byaruhanga ruled in favor of Mugenyi, finding sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims of fraudulent registration.
In addition to the title cancellation, the court directed Barugaha to pay UGX 72 million in damages, comprising both general and punitive damages. The judgment also issued a permanent injunction barring Barugaha, her family members, agents, or representatives from committing any further acts of trespass on the disputed land.
According to the court, the fraudulent registration of the land under Barugaha’s name contravened property laws and unjustly deprived Mugenyi of his rightful ownership.
“The evidence presented demonstrated clear irregularities in the land acquisition process, necessitating immediate legal rectification,” Justice Byaruhanga stated during the ruling.
The disputed land, located in Kyakaliba Village, has been at the center of a protracted legal battle spanning over 15 years. The prolonged case underscores the challenges faced by the judiciary in addressing land disputes, particularly those involving allegations of fraud and forgery.
Barugaha, who had laid claim to the land, has not yet issued a public response to the court’s ruling or disclosed any plans to appeal the decision.
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