Residents from six villages in Kimanya-Kabonera Division, Masaka City, are up in arms against a local landowner who has allegedly built a structure in the middle of a road, obstructing access and stalling development in the area. The affected villages include Lufumba, Kasanje, Lusagala, Nakasojo, Gulama, and others, which were recently annexed to Masaka City.
The residents accuse the landowner, Lukyamuzi Gyavira, of blocking a crucial road that serves multiple communities. They claim that his actions have hindered development projects, including road construction and drainage improvements, which are essential for the area’s growth.
Kirija Muwonge, a local resident, revealed that Lukyamuzi purchased a plot measuring 50 by 100 feet but later encroached on the road, leaving no space for public access. Muwonge appealed to Lukyamuzi to relocate his structure to allow the community to use the road.
Lukyamuzi, however, defended his actions, stating that he built on his own land and did not encroach on the road. He claimed that the road was widened by 17 feet without his consent, leading to the current dispute. Lukyamuzi accused the residents of targeting him unfairly and vowed not to give up his land.
Kayondo Godfrey, the village chairperson, acknowledged the dispute and called for a resolution to ensure development projects can proceed. He revealed that the landowner’s agreement indicated a plot size of 50 by 100 feet, but recent measurements showed the road had been widened to 67 feet, leading to confusion.
Nantongo Jane, a resident, urged local leaders to intervene and help resolve the dispute. She emphasized the importance of the road for the community’s development and called for a fair solution.
Daniel Kaweesi, the Masaka City Town Clerk, advised the village chairperson to engage the landowner and find a solution. He emphasized the need to balance individual property rights with public interest.
Juliet Nakabuye, the Masaka City Woman Member of Parliament, condemned the act of building in the middle of a road and called for strict enforcement of laws to prevent such incidents in the future.
Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, expressed concern over the delays in road construction due to such disputes. He called for accountability in the use of public funds allocated for development projects.
As the dispute continues, residents and leaders are working to find a solution that balances individual rights with the community’s need for development and access to essential infrastructure.
