In a significant move, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU) in Uganda has put a temporary halt to the looming eviction of around 4,000 people from three villages within the Nakawa Division. This action comes in response to a collective plea from over 3,000 residents and local leaders of Banda B, Kinawataka, and Kiganda in Kira Municipality and Kampala City, who sought intervention against threats of eviction purportedly by the Uganda Police Force, which claims ownership of the land in question.
The SHACU team has embarked on a detailed investigation to verify the rightful ownership of the land, a measure aimed at preventing any potential eviction activities until conclusive evidence is presented. Recent visits to the disputed area by SHACU officials facilitated the collection of statements from the affected community members, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and transparency in the matter.
Speaking on the issue, Ms. Mariam Natasha Oduka, the spokesperson for SHACU, highlighted the importance of a meticulous process to ascertain the legitimacy of the land ownership claims. She reassured the public that, as of now, no arrests have been made, signaling a careful and considerate approach to the ongoing investigation.
Ms. Oduka further acknowledged the receipt of a formal petition from the residents of the four implicated villages, urging for patience and calmness among the populace. She advocated for a resolution through dialogue and peaceful negotiations, reflecting the government’s dedication to fostering harmony and understanding in resolving land disputes.
The intervention by SHACU has brought a temporary sense of relief to the local residents, who have been living in a state of fear and uncertainty due to previous eviction attempts. Notably, police-led evictions in the latter part of the previous year had resulted in the displacement of over 400 people and a tragic fatality amid protests. These actions have been met with criticism from the community and human rights advocates, questioning the legitimacy of the police’s claim to the land against documented evidence of the residents’ longstanding occupancy.
The Kampala Metropolitan Police, defending their operations, stated their intent was to clear the land of non-eligible occupants and unauthorized structures. However, this stance has faced opposition from various quarters, including Senior Presidential Advisor Ms. Hadijah Namyalo, who condemned the police’s handling of the situation. Ms. Namyalo emphasized the importance of adhering to Ugandan laws on eviction and the safeguarding of human rights, advocating for a collective effort from the community to petition and engage with relevant authorities for a peaceful resolution.
This intervention by the State House underscores a pivotal moment in the protection of citizens’ rights against displacement, setting a precedent for the handling of similar disputes across Uganda.
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