Summary:
Kasese District Vice Chairperson, Jerevesious Monday Bwambale, explained that the government mistakenly purchased land that had not been leased by the seller, prompting legal petitions from the current occupants.
KASESE: Leaders in Kasese District have revealed that the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) did not involve them in the procurement of land that the government claims to have purchased for flood victims currently sheltered at a temporary camp in Muhokya Town Council.
In 2022, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja directed the Minister of Luweero-Rwenzori Affairs and local leaders to identify land for resettling those displaced by the 2020 floods when major rivers from the Rwenzori Mountains burst their banks.
Subsequently, some district leaders announced that the government had identified over 200 acres in Bwenanule Cell, Muhokya Town Council, and had begun negotiations with landowners for its purchase.
However, disputes soon emerged over ownership, with some occupants claiming ancestral rights and others presenting legal ownership documents.
During a meeting at the district headquarters with the Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, Hon. Lillian Aber on Friday, local leaders denied any involvement in the land acquisition process.
Kasese Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Lt. Joe Walusimbi stated that OPM officials bypassed his office and other local authorities, leading to a transaction on disputed land.
He described the prolonged stay of flood victims in the camp as a “ticking time bomb” due to the hardships they face.
Kasese District Vice Chairperson, Jerevesious Monday Bwambale, explained that the government mistakenly purchased land that had not been leased by the seller, prompting legal petitions from the current occupants.
Muhokya Internally Displaced Camp Chairperson, Rehema Aryema, in a written report to Minister Aber, emphasized the urgent need for resettlement.
She highlighted ongoing struggles with housing, poverty, and social challenges, urging immediate government intervention.
In response, Minister Aber sympathized with the displaced persons and pledged to escalate their concerns to the President for a swift and lasting solution.
She assured leaders that the government would take the necessary steps to secure land for the affected people.
