The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, has raised strong concerns to the recent evictions from the Rubigi wetlands, describing the actions as “uncalled for.” Her remarks came during a morning plenary session on June 19th.
“While we should not interfere with NEMA’s enforcement duties, why should they allow individuals to develop and settle in these areas without intervention, only to later demolish their properties,” she stated.
Among also criticized the selective enforcement by officials, noting the apparent disparity in treatment between different parties. “We have malls built in wetlands that remain untouched, unlike the homes and businesses in Rubigi,” she pointed out.
She further condemned the treatment of members of parliament, including the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, who were tear-gassed during an oversight visit to the affected areas. “The police’s response to the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, and his team during their oversight visit was unfortunate and unnecessary,” she added.
Residents of Nansana Municipality have been evicted by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for encroaching on the Rubigi wetland. Over the past weeks, NEMA has been evicting residents and business operators from the wetland, particularly affecting areas in Ganda, Nansana, and Rubigi. The residents, through their lawyers, argue that their evictions are unlawful, as they have been paying ground rent and are fully registered by the Buganda Land Board as rightful landowners.
