The State Minister for Lands, Sam Mayanja, has intervened in a long-standing land dispute involving 23 acres in Ochieng 1 Village, Nansana Division, Wakiso District, following complaints from the family of the late David Ochieng.
The intervention comes after the deceased’s daughters petitioned the President, alleging that their land was sold without their knowledge by one Charles Lulyo Balaba.
Speaking to the media, Linda Ochieng said the land was part of their inheritance after their father’s death.
“After our father passed away, his property was shared, and my sister and I were given this land. But when I returned from abroad, I found it had already been sold and occupied,” she said.
Linda insists that the current occupants must either vacate the land or formally purchase it from the rightful owners.
“They should either buy the land from us or leave. We have suffered enough yet our father left us this property,” she added.
However, the residents, led by Joseph Kamya Bukenya, maintain that they acquired the land legally and have lived there for nearly two decades.
“We bought this land through proper channels from Charles Lulyo Balaba and were given agreements. We have stayed here for over 18 years, so it is unfair to ask us to leave or pay again,” Bukenya said.
The residents also dismissed calls to repurchase the land, arguing that they already fulfilled their financial obligations.
While addressing more than 200 affected residents, Minister Mayanja clarified the legal status of the land and dismissed claims that it belongs to Buganda Land Board.
“This land does not belong to Buganda Land Board Limited as earlier claimed. Residents should stop paying busuulu under that assumption,” Mayanja explained.
He directed the occupants to remain on the land as efforts to resolve the dispute continue.
“Stay on your bibanja as we work out a solution. Engage with the rightful landowners so that you can acquire proper land titles,” he said.
The minister also announced the formation of a mediation committee led by Wakiso RDC Justine Mbabazi to ensure justice for both parties within 60 days.
In addition, Nansana RDC Charles Lwanga has been tasked to investigate Charles Lulyo Balaba and his associates over alleged fraudulent land dealings.
“We are going to investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure that justice is served for all affected parties,” Lwanga said.