Kayunga District, Galiraya. Tension is high in the villages of Kisuga-B, Kambatanyi, and Kyedikyo as residents face eviction threats from land claimed by Wasswa Solomon, who asserts ownership of approximately 600 acres. The dispute escalated after a crisis meeting was convened in Kisuga-B, attended by local leaders, area MP Charles Tebandeke, and other officials, to investigate the legitimacy of Solomon’s claims.
Residents Demand Justice.
Nsamba Godfrey, Chairperson of Kisuga-B Village, alongside other leaders, accused Wasswa Solomon of collaborating with police to intimidate residents, jeopardising their livelihoods. We are living in fear. Solomon’s actions threaten our lives and homes,” he said, urging authorities to intervene.
Jamadah Kakinda, Galiraya Sub-County Chairperson, condemned Solomon’s alleged attempts to forcibly evict families without following legal procedures. “No one should be displaced unlawfully. The due process must be respected,” Kakinda emphasised.
Solomon’s Defence.
Wasswa Solomon, however, insists the land was legally acquired by his father, Ssebanakitta, in 1993 and that he has documentation to prove ownership. He admitted to hiring guards to protect the property but denied authorising violence. “My father bought this land. We’ve even compensated some occupants,” Solomon stated, though residents dispute this.
MP Tebandeke Calls for Dialogue
MP Charles Tebandeke reminded both parties of the Land Act, which prohibits landlords from unlawfully evicting occupants. He urged Solomon to negotiate with residents and explore peaceful resolutions, such as fair compensation, rather than coercion. *“Dialogue, not force, is the path forward,” Tebandeke asserted.
The standoff continues as local leaders push for a transparent verification of ownership and a halt to evictions until legal avenues are exhausted.
