Displaced Hoima residents plead for President Museveni’s intervention
He alleges that homes were burned and livestock killed during the operation.
Hoima: More than 2,000 residents from Kapapi and Kiganja Sub-counties in Hoima District are appealing to President Yoweri Museveni to intervene in a long-standing land dispute that led to their forced eviction in early 2023.
The affected families, mainly cultivators and pastoralists, were evicted from approximately 5 square miles of land covering villages such as Waaki North, Waaki South, Kapapi Central, Runga, and Kiryatete.
According to Mr. John Ucowun the eviction conducted in February 2023 was carried out by a team that included police officers and private guards.
Mr. Salvatore Ukumu alleges that homes were burned and livestock killed during the operation. ‘’Many displaced residents are now living under trees, on verandahs, or seeking shelter with relatives,’’ he said, appealing for President Museveni’s intervention.
Fred Gatasa, another evictee, expressed frustration over the government’s inaction despite numerous visits by ministers. ‘’We have not been helped despite numerous visits by the government officials,’’ he stressed.
He claims that even after receiving instructions to return to their land, security forces warned them with death threats should they attempt to go back.
Gatasa appealed directly to President Museveni and First Son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, urging them to order the withdrawal of UPDF soldiers currently guarding the disputed land.
Last month, during a community meeting with the affected residents, Sam Mayanja, the State Minister reiterated the presidential directive issued on February 22, 2023, which prohibits all illegal evictions.
The Minister also ordered the arrest of those responsible, including Michael Kyakashari, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Hoima.
The Minister directed both the RDC and the District Police Commander (DPC) to ensure that all displaced residents are safely returned to their land and protected from any further harassment or eviction attempts.
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