By Joseph kiggundu
State Minister for Lands, Sam Mayanja, has overseen the return of eleven residents to their bibanja in Kakunyu village, Mende Sub-county, Wakiso District, following an investigation into a long-running land dispute.
Speaking to locals during a visit to the area, Mayanja explained that findings from the Anti-Corruption Unit confirmed that eleven out of fourteen claimants were legitimate bibanja holders. He said the report, endorsed by Brig. Gen. Isoke, recommended that the verified occupants be allowed to resume possession of their land.
The affected residents had previously been evicted by landowner Apollo Kaggwa. Among those reinstated are Lydia Namboga, Milly Babirye Mutyaba, Paul Kimuli Ssegane, and Christine Kimuli, among others.
Mayanja noted that after learning of the investigation’s outcome, Kaggwa sought court intervention, which delayed implementation of the report. He added that Kaggwa failed to prove in court that he had compensated the bibanja occupants, despite being given the opportunity to do so.
The minister also accused Kaggwa of intimidating residents by allegedly detaining some and using groups of youths to harass them and block access to their land.
According to Mayanja, the court later dismissed Kaggwa’s case, clearing the way for the residents to return. The ruling stated that the suit had abated and awarded costs to the defendants.
Tensions escalated further when Kaggwa reportedly sent a strongly worded letter warning the minister against revisiting the land. The letter, dated March 11 and received on March 17, claimed that the matter was still before the courts and cautioned against what he described as unlawful interference.
In the letter, Kaggwa issued threats, suggesting that further actions could lead to serious consequences. He also indicated that security authorities, including the Minister of Defence and the Inspector General of Police, had been informed.
Despite this, Mayanja dismissed the threats and proceeded with his plans, handing over the letter to Wakiso District Police Commander Esther Kizza for investigation. He stated that Kaggwa may be required to explain the contents of his communication.
Meanwhile, Wakiso Resident District Commissioner Justine Mbabazi assured the affected residents of government protection and support as they resettle on their land.
