By Namuli N Racheal
More than 2,000 residents of Rwenyana and Rungu villages in Kapapi Parish, Kigorobya Sub-county, Hoima District, have reportedly been evicted from their ancestral land by Brig. Gen. Nabasa Peter Akankunda of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
At the time of publication, many affected families remain homeless and uncertain about their next steps after being left in a state of confusion and distress.
On July 15 last year, the State Minister for Lands, Dr. Sam Mayanja, visited the disputed land alongside Fiona Barungi, the Presidential Assistant on Special Duties. The meeting was also attended by Brig. Gen. Nabasa and local residents.
During the meeting, residents accused Brig. Gen. Nabasa of alleged misconduct, claiming that several women were sexually assaulted by armed men said to be under his command. They further alleged that homes, crops, and livestock were destroyed during earlier operations on the land.
Brig. Gen. Nabasa reportedly stated that he obtained a 10-year lease for 700 acres from the Byangire family in 2023 and that he possesses the necessary documentation to support his claim.
Following the meeting, Dr. Mayanja directed that residents who had been evicted from their bibanja (customary land holdings) be reinstated, citing a directive issued by the President of Uganda on February 22, 2023. The minister’s communication was welcomed by residents, who expressed hope that the dispute would be resolved in their favor.
However, residents claim that the minister’s directive was later disregarded. They allege that on Sunday, February 8, Brig. Gen. Nabasa and armed personnel returned to the land, threatening residents, destroying property, firing gunshots into the air, and subjecting some individuals to violence. Allegations of sexual assault and severe beatings have also been raised.
By press time, residents said they were seeking intervention from law enforcement authorities and well-wishers, questioning how the alleged actions could proceed despite a presidential directive.
