Land Dispute in Uganda’s South Busoga Forest Reserve Escalates as Residents Demand Justice
In a dramatic turn of events, residents of Kityerera and Malongo sub-counties in Mayuge District, Uganda, stormed the home of Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Isanga Nakadama, seeking her intervention in a long-standing land dispute within the South Busoga Forest Reserve. The dispute, which dates back to 2011, has been marked by rising tensions and allegations of torture.
The roots of the dispute can be traced back to a declaration by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who announced that 48 villages would be degazetted for resettlement. However, the process has stalled, leading to a standoff between the “Itaka Lyange” group, who claim ownership of the land, and other residents of the area.
The situation took a violent turn recently, when 60-year-old Jane Nabirye was brutally beaten, resulting in a broken rib. Locals allege that the attack was carried out by individuals asserting ownership of the disputed land. Frustrated and desperate for justice, the residents gathered at Minister Nakadama’s residence, demanding answers and a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Minister Nakadama has denied any involvement with the “Itaka Lyange” group and promised to engage security operatives to address the issue. However, the residents claim that previous reports of torture have been filed with the local police in Bugadde, but no justice has been served. They accuse the Officer in Charge (OC) at Bugadde Police Station of introversion, even after cases of torture have been reported.
The situation in the area remains tense, with the locals insisting on a resolution to the land dispute and an end to the violence. Minister Nakadama’s intervention is seen as crucial to finding a peaceful solution to this long-standing issue and fulfilling the president’s pledge to return the 48 villages to their rightful inhabitants.
As the standoff continues, the international community is watching with concern, hoping that a peaceful resolution can be reached to end the suffering of the affected communities.
