By Hannah Marion Namukasa
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, speaking at the 35th Heroes’ Day celebrations in Gomba District, delivered a stern message to landlords regarding the eviction of bibanja holders and the collection of excessive nominal rent fees (busuulu). Emphasizing adherence to district-approved busuulu fees, Museveni warned that landlords found evicting bibanja holders or charging more than the agreed-upon rent would face arrest.
The President recalled the resolution reached in the Constituent Assembly and reaffirmed in the 1998 Land Act, asserting that landlords cannot evict bibanja holders who have occupied the land since 1983. He underscored the significance of nominal rent fixed by district land boards as a means to ensure fairness and stability.
However, reports from the LC5 chairperson for Gomba District, Mr. Kiviiri Geoffrey, indicated that despite the approved nominal fee of Shs10,000 per year, landlords’ refusal to accept this has escalated land disputes.
To address the issue, Museveni proposed holding the rent at the sub-county level if landlords refuse to accept the designated fees, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to established laws.
Additionally, Museveni tasked the Resident District Commissioner of Gomba to document eviction threats and resolve disputes with landlords, while Lands Minister Hon. Judith Nabakooba distributed land titles to 446 Kanoni residents through the government’s Land Fund.
During the event, which also honored the sacrifices of freedom fighters, 49 individuals received medals for their contributions to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation. Notable attendees included Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Among, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Museveni reiterated his call for Ugandans to combat poverty through the NRM’s wealth creation initiatives, emphasizing the importance of patriotism, pan-Africanism, and socio-economic transformation in their victory.
Furthermore, the President directed the new Inspector General of Police to enhance local policing and curb crime effectively, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring security and prosperity for all Ugandans.
