By Frank Kamuntu
Yesterday 12th May 2024, Hon Mwijukye Francis, a member of Parliament representing the Buhweju constituency survived being killed by hired Kanyamas, who thumped him into a pulp.
According to to the deputy mayor, Doreen Nyanjura via X-platform, Mwijukye was attacked by a group of land grabbers.
“I have just talked to Hon Mwijukye Francis who is currently admitted at a health facility in Mbarara city after sustaining deep cuts on the head by panga-wielding Kanyamas. The Kanyamas are under the command of Edwin Burimbare who wants to grab land belonging to Rwamanyare Catholic Church in Buhweju.
The Kanyamas armed with Pangas dispersed the congregation during prayers! Seven people sustained injuries including Kyarisima, a journalist with TV West who was severely beaten and his cameras destroyed,” adds Nyanjura.
It’s reported that after the attack, Police evacuated Mwijukye and is now hunting the goons.
Land grabbing in Uganda is a critical issue that threatens local communities and ecosystems. Due to land grabbing, native forests and local biodiversity are being lost, and people are being evicted from their homes, forced to give up their lands.
This practice often involves large-scale purchases or leases of farmland by outside interests, sometimes initiated by mafias in government.
The Ugandan government has taken several steps to address land grabbing and protect citizens’ rights. Some of these actions include:
- Land Registration and Titling: The government has worked to improve land registration and titling processes. By ensuring that land ownership is properly documented, they aim to reduce disputes and prevent illegal land acquisitions.
- Land Use Planning and Zoning: Implementing effective land use planning and zoning regulations helps prevent haphazard development and ensures that land is used sustainably. This includes designating areas for agriculture, residential use, conservation, and industrial purposes.
- Community Land Associations: The government encourages the formation of community land associations. These groups help manage communal land, protect it from encroachment, and advocate for the rights of local communities.
- Legal Reforms: Uganda has enacted laws to address land-related issues. For instance, the Land Act of 1998 provides guidelines on land tenure, ownership, and management. Amendments have been made over time to strengthen land rights and curb land grabbing.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government and civil society organizations conduct awareness campaigns to educate citizens about their land rights. These efforts empower people to resist land grabbing and report illegal activities.
- Investigations and Prosecutions: Authorities investigate reported cases of land grabbing and prosecute offenders. This includes both individuals and companies involved in illegal land transactions.
- Collaboration with NGOs and International Partners: Uganda collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international partners to address land-related challenges. These partnerships provide technical assistance, capacity building, and funding.
