By Hannah Marion Namukasa
Senior Presidential Advisor Hajj Abdul Nadduli has called on Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka to take disciplinary action against State House lawyer Sandrah Ndyomugyenyi for allegedly misdirecting herself in the ongoing Katanga land dispute.
In a letter dated August 19, Nadduli accused Ndyomugyenyi of improperly quashing a court decision concerning land ownership, which he claims has unjustly deprived Pr. Daniel Walugembe, a legitimate occupant, of his rights. Nadduli alleges that despite a court ruling on her actions, Ndyomugyenyi has continued to defy the ruling, declaring she would persist in her actions regardless of the court’s decision.
Nadduli’s letter highlights that Ndyomugyenyi’s actions, as reported in the media, represent a blatant disregard for judicial authority. “Since your office is the legal advisor of all government agencies, I request you to intervene in this matter and have the said officer disciplined,” Nadduli wrote.
The controversy centers around a June 13, 2023, report authored by Ndyomugyenyi, which directed that Dr. Lule Ntwatwa should be allowed to use his land without interference from other claimants, contrary to earlier court orders favoring Walugembe. Justice Boniface Wamala later quashed this directive, ruling it unlawful and a violation of the court’s express orders.
Legal experts and a section of lawyers have backed the High Court’s decision, emphasizing that State House legal officers have no authority to override or review court orders. Brian Rubihayo, a legal commentator, criticized Ndyomugyenyi’s actions, stating that the State House legal department should not act as a law firm or interfere in matters already settled by the court.
Rubihayo further explained that Ndyomugyenyi’s report led to an eviction order against Walugembe, despite multiple court orders affirming his ownership of the disputed land. The legal community is rallying against Ndyomugyenyi’s actions, underscoring the need for strict adherence to court rulings and proper conduct by government legal officers.
The case has drawn significant attention and debate, with many urging the Attorney General to address the issue promptly to uphold the rule of law and maintain judicial integrity.
