Residents of Butaala Buuna, Kabalangaja, Ebuyoola, Balisanga, and Mujumbi villages in Kayonza Sub-county, Kayunga District, are living in fear as they accuse a woman identified as Penina Awoli of violently evicting them from their ancestral land.
Police Accused of Collusion
The affected locals have reported the matter to Kayunga Police, but they claim officers are acting as "land brokers" instead of protecting them. They allege that law enforcement is siding with land grabbers, leaving them helpless.
Political Leaders Implicated
The residents further accuse the NRM Chairperson of Baale and a man named Kalangwa of supporting Awoli’s actions. The dispute escalated to a meeting chaired by Kayunga RDC Mariam Nalubega and attended by Lands Minister Dr. Sam Mayanja.
Historical Land Ownership Claims
Residents, backed by LC3 Chairperson John Mulamuzi, say they have occupied the land since 1975. They claim Penina Awoli only acquired a land title in 2020, despite their decades-long occupancy since 1993. They allege she began forcefully seizing their property shortly after obtaining the title.
Minister Mayanja Intervenes
After hearing both sides, Minister Mayanja emphasized the need to follow proper land laws to resolve the dispute. He issued five key directives, including:
1. RDC to ensure all displaced residents return to their land immediately.
2. DPC to investigate and reprimand any police officers involved in illegal evictions.
3. Warning against security forces acting as "land brokers" in Kayunga.
Residents Demand Justice
The victims say Kayunga is becoming a hotspot for land grabbing, with powerful individuals using police and local leaders to displace them. They are now counting on the minister’s intervention to reclaim their land.
Next Steps:
- RDC tasked with enforcing the minister’s orders.
- Police under scrutiny for alleged misconduct.
- Awoli and her alleged accomplices face legal pressure.
Conclusion:
The case highlights Uganda’s persistent land conflicts, where vulnerable communities face displacement despite long-term occupancy. The government’s response will determine whether justice prevails or if land grabbers continue unchecked.
