UGANDA, Wakiso | Real Muloodi News | The disputed land in Busamba, Kanziro-Gayaza, and Ngondwe-Kinyika has become a focal point of conflict, with allegations of unauthorised land dealings and forcible evictions.
Tensions flared in Namayumba Sub-county, Wakiso District, as police barred hundreds of bibanja holders from convening a crucial planning meeting concerning a contentious 1,044-acre land parcel spanning three villages.
The planned gathering, organised by the Bibanja Holders Association (BHA) and aggrieved family members of the late Gabudyeri Lubajja, aimed to inform over 5,000 residents about the intricacies of the land dispute.
However, police intervention prevented the meeting from taking place, sparking frustration among residents and organisers alike.
Mr Abraham Luwalira, a senior Presidential Coordinator on Land Matters and head of BHA expressed disappointment at the police’s actions, highlighting the importance of educating residents on their legal rights amidst escalating tensions.
Despite allegedly notifying authorities of the meeting beforehand, organisers were met with opposition, citing ministerial directives regarding the disputed land.
“We wanted to sensitise bibanja holders in the three villages to know their rights. There was no violence, but police said the meeting was illegal and blocked our meeting,” Mr Luwalira stated, underscoring the need for lawful resolution in land disputes.
He emphasised the plight of residents facing intimidation and called for adherence to legal processes in land transactions.
The contentious land, subject to ongoing legal battles, has seen heightened insecurity and unrest since December 2022, following the involvement of Ms. Berna Nakato, a land dealer, and alleged administrator of the disputed property.
Nakato’s claims of ownership over 200 acres have sparked disputes with bibanja holders and family members of the late Lubajja, leading to court proceedings and community tensions.
Residents, including Josephine Mpamulungi and Teddy Namusoke, have challenged Nakato’s acquisition of the land, alleging unauthorised transactions and failure to consult affected parties.
Despite legal injunctions and protests, Nakato has proceeded with land demarcation and title processing, exacerbating tensions and prompting calls for intervention.
In response to escalating tensions, Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba convened a security meeting in May 2023, halting activities on the disputed land and initiating investigations by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit.
However, affected residents lamented the lack of follow-up and raised concerns over biased reports favouring Nakato’s interests.
The situation in Busamba remains volatile, with residents voicing grievances against perceived injustices and demanding equitable resolution of the land dispute.
Allegations of police complicity and biased intervention further complicate efforts to restore calm and address community concerns.
While Nakato and her representatives maintain their legal ownership claims, opposing parties continue to challenge the legitimacy of land transactions and advocate for fair treatment under the law.
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