In a dramatic turn of events in Uganda’s Albertine region, the government’s rush to evict landowners for an oil refinery project has sparked outrage and fear among the affected communities. Mugisha Jealousy Mulimba and 41 other landowners are facing imminent eviction after a swift court ruling in favor of the government, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and vulnerability.
The High Court’s decision to allow TotalEnergies to take possession of the land for the Tilenga oil and gas project has raised concerns about the fairness and legality of the process. Landowners like Fred Balikenda and Kwonka William Mugisa are standing their ground, refusing to accept inadequate compensation for their land and property.
Human rights lawyer Eron Kiiza has condemned the rushed judgment, calling it a violation of legal principles and a threat to fundamental human rights. The Uganda Law Society has been urged to boycott the Judiciary’s activities in protest against the government’s actions.
As the landowners appeal the eviction order, they face intimidation and threats from security operatives, adding to their distress. Global Witness has reported instances of state authorities collaborating with TotalEnergies, raising questions about the company’s role in the evictions.
Despite TotalEnergies’ claims of hiring an independent investigator, concerns remain about their involvement in the displacement of communities. Dickens Kamugisha of AFIEGO has criticized the government and TotalEnergies for using the courts to oppress landowners and deny them their rights.
As the landowners await justice from the Court of Appeal, their plight serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities in the face of powerful interests. The fight for fair compensation and respect for their rights continues, as they refuse to be silenced or intimidated in their quest for justice.
