Councillors in Kamwenge District have tasked district authorities to explain the circumstances under which Uganda People’s Defence Forces barracks were established on district land in Byabasambu, which had previously been earmarked for other development projects.
The matter was raised during a Thursday council sitting by Yunicent Mubangizi, who expressed concern over what she described as an unexpected change in land use.
Mubangizi told council that the district had earlier approved a budget and development plan for Byabasambu, only for the land to later be allocated to the military without the knowledge or approval of council.
“The district had already passed a development plan and budget for Byabasambu, so it came as a surprise to see the land being occupied by the military,” she said.
She demanded accountability from district officials, calling for a clear explanation on how the decision was made and why council was not consulted.
“I want the responsible authorities to come before this council and explain why the military occupied district land without council approval,” she added.
In response, the Resident District Commissioner, Africano Aharikundira, defended the development, stating that the establishment of the military barracks followed requests from district leaders seeking to strengthen security in the area.
“The presence of the military in Byabasambu is a result of requests by leaders in Kamwenge who wanted a barracks to help prevent possible attacks from ADF,” Aharikundira said.
He further noted that the military installation is expected to benefit the local community through planned infrastructure such as a military hospital and schools.
“The army plans to construct a military hospital and military schools, which will not only serve soldiers but also benefit the surrounding community,” he said.