Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-17 19:22:27
A dispute has arisen between a senior soldier in the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF) and the family of his late driver over a plot of land in Busega Kibumiro Zone, Rubaga Division. The family of deceased Ibrahim Kumali claims that Maj Jimmy Katende is attempting to evict them from the land where they have resided for the past 18 years. Widow Sylivia Namee insists that her husband had purchased the disputed land from Maj Katende while he was still serving as his driver.
Namee revealed that after her husband’s passing in 2017, they began receiving eviction notices from Maj Katende, prompting them to seek legal intervention. Despite filing a case in court, they faced delays in obtaining a ruling due to the Major’s alleged connections. In an effort to seek justice, the family petitioned President Museveni through the office of Resident City Commission Aminah Lukanga, claiming that the eviction orders were unjust and potentially from an unknown source.
On November 3, 2022, the RCC issued a letter to Maj Katende instructing him to cease the eviction proceedings pending a decision by the magistrate court. Despite attempts to mediate a dialogue between the two parties, Maj Katende failed to appear at the meeting organized by Lukanga. Subsequently, Namee received news while in the village that their home had been forcibly taken over by the soldier, disregarding the ongoing court case.
In response to the allegations, Maj Katende advised Kumali’s family to address their grievances with the court that issued the eviction order. He reiterated that the court’s decision was final and that the family should not waste time pursuing the matter further.
The ongoing land dispute highlights the complexities and challenges faced by individuals seeking resolution through the legal system. The conflicting claims and actions taken by both parties have led to a contentious situation that remains unresolved. The involvement of a senior military official adds another layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about power dynamics and access to justice.
As the legal battle continues, the family of Ibrahim Kumali remains determined to fight for their rights to the land they have called home for nearly two decades. The outcome of this dispute will have lasting implications for both parties involved and underscores the importance of upholding property rights and seeking fair and transparent resolution mechanisms in land disputes.
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