Ibanda | The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Ibanda, Godfrey Mbetegyereize, has made a formal appeal to the High Court in Mbarara, urging it to fast-track the resolution of a 25-year-old land dispute that has led to serious security threats and loss of life.
The long-standing case, registered as HCT-05-CS-20 of 2018, centers on a conflict between Bazeregye Sisiriya and others versus Vincent Mbabazi over a 43-hectare piece of land in Kyembogo Cell, Kalangala Ward, Bisheshe Division.
In a letter to the High Court, Mbetegyereize expressed concern over the continued delay in the case’s resolution, which has sparked violence and community unrest.
“This matter has been in court for a very long time without a conclusion. It is causing tension in the area and has become a serious security threat,” Mbetegyereize wrote, emphasizing the urgency of a final ruling to restore peace to the region.
The RDC further highlighted the tragic consequences of the dispute, revealing that two lives have been lost due to the escalating tensions. Lazarus Kahangire, 47, an inmate on remand at Nyabuhikye Prison, and Suleiman Chemonges, 28, a police officer, both reportedly died as a result of the land conflict.
Mbetegyereize called attention to the broader impact of the case, noting that it has gone beyond a civil matter and is now a public security issue.
“We are restrained by the rule of subjudice from intervening, yet the community is looking to us for a solution. Without a court decision, we cannot act, and the conflict continues to fester,” he stated.
The RDC’s plea underscores the broader implications of delayed justice in land disputes, particularly in rural areas where land is a crucial asset for livelihoods.
Mbetegyereize has urged the judiciary to prioritize the case to ensure that justice is served and that peace can be restored to Kyembogo and the surrounding communities.
“We are calling upon the High Court in Mbarara to expedite the hearing and ruling of this matter so that justice can be served and calm can return to Kyembogo,” the RDC concluded.
The case’s ongoing delay reflects a broader concern in Uganda regarding the timely resolution of land-related disputes, which often result in social unrest, violence, and loss of life.
The RDC’s appeal serves as a reminder of the urgent need for an efficient judicial system to address such matters and prevent further conflict.