Minister of Lands Sam Mayanja has ordered that families displaced from Plot 91 in Bugga Village, Mende Sub-county, be allowed to return to their land, following years of conflict involving alleged illegal evictions.
He also instructed authorities to arrest businessman Kakuggu Silivan Tumwesigye, who residents accuse of forcefully removing them from their homes.
The dispute, which has affected more than 2,000 families, has triggered repeated protests from locals who claim Kakuggu used threats, coercion and false claims of land sales to take over their property.
“The affected residents have a right to return to their land,” Mayanja told a public meeting in Wakiso.
“We are committed to ensuring that this injustice is corrected. No one should be allowed to evict or harass other people in their rightful homes.”
The contested land originally belonged to the late Ssekabala Kagulu. His family maintains that the estate remains under dispute. Kakuggu, however, insists he legally acquired the land in 2010 and has continued to assert ownership despite complaints from residents.
“I have always owned this land, and I will continue to protect my property,” he said, declining to comment on claims of forced evictions.
Residents strongly rejected his position. One resident, who asked not to be named, said the actions of Kakuggu and his associates left families living in fear.
“He forced us off the land, making false claims that we sold it. We never agreed to any sale,” the resident said.
Mayanja directed security teams and local leaders to take immediate action. “It is time for this abuse to stop,” he said.
“Kakuggu must face the consequences of his actions. His harassment of innocent residents cannot continue unchecked.”
Wakiso Resident District Commissioner Justine Mbabazi supported the minister’s directives and urged residents to remain calm as security agencies move in.
“There is no tolerance for unlawful land grabs in this district. The law will take its course,” she said.
Mayanja also ordered security personnel to monitor the area to prevent further intimidation or interference as investigations continue.
Despite lingering tension, many families say the minister’s intervention has given them renewed hope after years of uncertainty.
“We just want our land back,” one resident said, reflecting the sentiment of many awaiting a final resolution.