In Acinanga Village, Alworoceng Parish, Ibuje Sub County of Apac District, a 38-year-old man, Richard Onapa, is reportedly on the run after allegedly killing his stepbrother, Jasper Ekwaro, 24, in a dispute over family land.
The conflict arose during the government’s land registration project, aimed at acquiring certificates of customary land ownership. Onapa and Ekwaro clashed over whose name should be registered for a six-acre family land.
Tragically, Ekwaro lost his life in the altercation, succumbing to injuries inflicted by a blunt object wielded by Onapa. Witnesses recounted that during the argument, Ekwaro referred to Onapa as a “bastard” with no rights to the land. This verbal altercation escalated into physical violence, resulting in Ekwaro’s fatal injury.
Local authorities, including the area LCI chairperson Mr. Bonny Okello and Sub County Chief Mr. Moses Baranaba, are urging the public to report any sightings of Onapa to the authorities.
Apac District Police Commander, Mr. Rogers Kapere, confirmed that investigations into the murder are ongoing.
This incident underscores the prevalence of land disputes in Uganda, highlighted in a 2020 report titled “Deep Dive into Land Justice in Uganda” by The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law. The report reveals that one in every four Ugandans experiences land-related injustices, with vulnerable groups suffering severe consequences.
The costs and complexities of resolving land disputes often leave individuals feeling helpless. According to a recent report titled “Justice Needs and Satisfaction in Uganda 2024,” 42% of people have been involved in land disputes, with older individuals particularly affected.
The tragedy in Apac serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for effective mechanisms to address land-related conflicts and ensure justice for all Ugandans.
