UGANDA, Soroti | Real Muloodi News | Soroti City officials have been issued a stern warning by the Minister of Local Government, Mr Raphael Magyezi, against any involvement in the sale of public land within the city.
The minister’s directive included an order for the Soroti District Land Board to promptly transfer all public land files under their purview to the city’s land board.
Magyezi emphasised that no entity or individual possesses the authority to sell public land unless explicitly authorised by the central government.
Speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony organised by Soroti City East MP Herbert Edmund Ariko to celebrate his victory in the July 2022 by-election, Minister Magyezi reiterated the government’s position on the matter.
He cautioned against the unauthorised sale, lease, exchange, or disposal of public land in Soroti City, asserting that such actions require approval from the ministries of Local Government and Finance, as well as from Parliament.
The minister’s warning was prompted by growing concerns of collusion between unscrupulous developers and government officials to seize public land in Soroti.
Minister Magyezi issued a clear message to any developers contemplating the acquisition of government land in the area: “Please don’t make the mistake of buying public land in the city without my authorisation. I am taking this matter to parliament for approval. Don’t make a mistake, even if the lease has expired, you will be buying air.”
Furthermore, Minister Magyezi emphasised that the land board lacks the legal authority or permission to allocate public land or modify its designated usage. This stance underscores the government’s commitment to protecting public land from improper disposal and ensuring it remains accessible for its intended purposes.
Soroti City boasts significant portions of public land designated for recreational activities. Unfortunately, these areas have become prime targets for land grabbers in recent times.
During the event, funds were raised for the completion of the maternity ward at Moru Apesur and Kichinjaji Health Centre IIIs, initiatives initiated by MP Ariko.
Approximately 30 MPs in attendance contributed USh1 million each toward the cause, with Minister Magyezi contributing USh3 million and Speaker of Parliament Anita Among contributing USh30 million.
These efforts underscore the importance of community projects and cooperation among government officials to improve public services in the region.
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