Rukiga RDC & Accused Land Grabber Clash Over Security & Alleged Injustices

RUKIGA – A heated disagreement unfolded yesterday evening between Nayebare Fred Kyamuzigita, the Resident District Commissioner of Rukiga, and Mary Kibahigire, accused of land grabbing and employing Congolese nationals armed with arrows threatening insecurity in Rukiga District.

The exchange of bitter words occurred during a reconciliation meeting addressing security concerns and land grabbing issues in Nyabubare cell, Rwenyangyi Parish, Kamwezi Sub County in Rukiga District.

Kibahigire is alleged to have encroached upon approximately 60 acres of land, leading to the destruction of properties such as gardens, tree plantations, farms, and houses, while also restricting access for rightful owners. Moreover, she is accused of hiring refugees as casual laborers without local leaders’ consent, causing insecurity in the area. Residents also accuse her of authorizing employees to evict and burn their land and failing to control her stray dogs, which have terrorized the community by attacking and killing domestic animals.

In her defense, Kibahigire asserted that her workers are legitimate, registered, and approved by the Prime Minister’s Office. She claimed the right to rear dogs and expressed dissatisfaction with the local security’s failure to protect her despite alleged murder attempts by some community members.

The exchange of bitter words escalated as the RDC advised Kibahigire not to interfere with security operations, emphasizing the governing laws. The RDC warned of potential arrests of Kibahigire’s workers if she continues undermining local leaders, intelligence personnel, and security efforts.

CUE IN KIBAHIGIRE & RDC… EXCHANGING BITTER WORDS….RR//

Residents, including Benon Tugarukye and Mable Turyamwijuka, shared stories of Mary’s stray dogs attacking and injuring livestock, with one resident reporting the abduction of her 16-year-old daughter by Kibahigire’s employees.

CUE IN RESIDENTS….ON DOGS…..RR//

Kibahigire defended her dog-rearing business, claiming that residents often incite aggression towards her dogs and workers, resulting in attempted murder incidents.

CUE IN KIBAHIGIRE…..ON DOGS…..RR//

RDC Kyamuzigita insisted that security officials must identify and verify Kibahigire’s employees, urging her to respect the laws governing the country.

CUE IN RDC NAYABARE….ON THE MATTER…RR//

Major Martha Asiimwe, the Presidential Advisor on Resident District Commissioners, emphasized the enforcement of the Land Act to ensure residents’ full access to their land. She called for an investigation to identify those responsible for burning people’s trees in the area.

CUE IN MAJ ASIIMWE….ON THE ORDER…..ENG//