UGANDA, Nakasongola | Real Muloodi News | A deadly incident has rocked Lwabyata Sub-county in Nakasongola District, Uganda, as tensions escalate in a longstanding land dispute, resulting in the brutal murder of a Kibanja holder.
The victim, Dan Ssebyala, was viciously attacked by unknown assailants wielding machetes, sparking fears of further violence in the area.
According to reports, Ssebyala was ambushed and fatally wounded as he returned home to Ndaiga Village, Nakasongola District.
The attack occurred shortly after a confrontation with a manager from the disputed land, where Ssebyala had been cultivating his plot.
Family members revealed that Ssebyala had been warned by the manager, identified only as Gideon, to cease his activities on the contested land, raising suspicions about the motive behind the attack.
Expressing concern over the escalating violence, Nakasongola District LC5 Chairperson, Sam Kigula, emphasised the need for urgent intervention from higher authorities to address the underlying issues fueling the conflict.
He highlighted the tragic loss of Ssebyala and the growing apprehension among residents, who are now mobilising in response to the deadly incident.
“We are witnessing a disturbing turn of events in the Nakasongola land dispute, with tragic consequences. The loss of life is deeply regrettable, and we urge all parties involved to exercise restraint and seek peaceful resolution,” stated Kigula.
The fatal attack on Ssebyala comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding a disputed 5 square mile land in Nakasongola District, where an estimated 4,000 residents from six villages in Lwabyata Sub-county are embroiled in a protracted dispute.
The conflict has escalated in recent weeks, prompting interventions from local authorities and security agencies.
Nakasongola RDC Saleh Kamba appealed for calm among residents and assured the public that security officials are actively investigating the incident.
However, concerns remain high as the community grapples with the aftermath of the violent attack and the unresolved land dispute that has plagued the region for years.
In a bid to restore peace and address the underlying grievances, the Nakasongola District security committee took decisive action in March 2023 by disarming private security guards deployed by one of the parties involved in the dispute.
Additionally, all workers at the farm in question were ordered to register with their respective local council offices, signalling a concerted effort to de-escalate tensions and facilitate dialogue.
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