Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-17 13:12:56
The landowners living under the threat of eviction in the oil-rich Albertine Graben in Buliisa district have taken their protest to the High Court in Hoima. They are protesting against forceful eviction without compensation as a result of TotalEnergies’ Tilenga project, which is set to produce 190,000 barrels of oil per day. The families facing displacement marched through the streets of Hoima with placards bearing messages such as “Stop land grabs”, “Don’t displace us for oil”, “Our land our lives”, and “Don’t Drill on Our Rights”.
Fred Mwesige, a landowner, led the peaceful protest and read out a petition criticizing the way High Court Justice Jessy Byaruhanga handled the case filed by the Attorney General’s Chambers. The landowners were particularly aggrieved by the swift court ruling that ordered compensation of Shs 950 million to be deposited in court for the project-affected persons (PAPs) before TotalEnergies E&P took over the land. However, the landowners rejected the compensation rates offered by the government, insisting on fair valuation and adequate compensation.
The protestors expressed concern that the government is prioritizing the interests of oil companies over the rights of its citizens. They demanded a halt to the eviction and compensation processes until an independent expert conducts a thorough review of the court ruling. They want fair and adequate compensation based on independent valuation, resolution of land disputes, and a transparent process.
Kato Tumusiime, a lawyer representing the landowners, highlighted the need for justice for the project-affected persons, emphasizing that the forced acquisition of land without proper compensation is against the constitution. The protestors are seeking fair treatment and access to justice as guaranteed under Article 26 of the 1995 constitution, which mandates prompt payment of fair and adequate compensation for compulsory acquisition of property.
Fred Balikenda, another landowner, shared his experience of having his land fenced off by TotalEnergies without agreeing on compensation beforehand. Despite the oil company building a replacement house for him, the issue of fair valuation and compensation remains unresolved.
The protestors are calling for a fair and transparent process that includes independent valuation, resolution of land disputes, and adherence to constitutional rights. They are demanding justice for the project-affected persons and are urging the government to prioritize the rights of its citizens over corporate interests. The ongoing protests highlight the challenges faced by communities in areas targeted for oil exploration and development and the need for a more equitable and inclusive approach to land acquisition and compensation.
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