A presidential directive to investigate corruption and irregular land dealings has culminated in the arraignment of five members of a land allocation committee accused of незакон activities in the Kyarubanga Forest Reserve in Nakasongola District.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), in coordination with the Uganda Police Force in Nakasongola and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), brought the suspects before court on charges of conspiracy to defraud, assault causing grievous harm, malicious damage to property, and unlawful confinement.
The accused have been identified as Robert Kasibante, Robert Kawa, Julius Musisi, Ronald Gawera, and Vincent Semata, all reportedly serving as members of the Land Allocation Committee.
Authorities noted that other suspects connected to the case are still at large.
Investigations reveal that the group allegedly undertook the subdivision and distribution of land within the Kyarubanga Forest Reserve before it had been officially degazetted—an action said to be in direct violation of a standing directive issued by President Museveni governing the degazettement process.
Authorities further allege that the accused forcefully seized land from sitting tenants and reassigned it to themselves and other individuals, including non-residents of Nakasongola District. These actions are reported to have sparked serious conflicts within the community, leading to violent confrontations, assaults, and destruction of property.
In addition to the land disputes, investigators claim that some committee members collected money from members of the public under the guise of offering land allocations. In several instances, however, the land was never allocated, raising allegations of fraudulent conduct.
The SH-ACU stated that its intervention followed a direct order from President Museveni to probe allegations of corruption and irregularities involving the committee. Officials emphasized that investigations remain ongoing and further developments are expected.
The accused persons have been remanded in custody until April 14, 2026 as the case proceeds through the judicial process.
