Africa-Press – Uganda. The Kasese District Security Committee has given an ultimatum to more than 3,500 residents who have been camped at the office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Lt. Joe Walusimbi for the past three months, demanding resolution of ongoing land disputes.
Authorities have directed the group to vacate the premises by tomorrow noon, warning that failure to comply will result in a forceful eviction. Hygiene and security concerns were cited as the main reasons for ending the prolonged stay.
“We have tolerated them for three months, but the situation has become a health hazard and a security risk. They must start leaving today, and by tomorrow noon, no one should still be here. We expect their leaders to take responsibility and guide their people peacefully,” RDC Lt. Joe Walusimbi said.
Despite the ultimatum, the residents have vowed to remain until the government fulfills its promises to resettle them and secure their land rights.
“We are not here by choice. We lost our land to unresolved disputes and we have nowhere else to go. Minister Mayanja promised to meet us after three months and hand over our land titles. That period has not yet expired, so why should we leave before the commitment is honored?” said Mijumbi Bitamazire, one of the affected residents.
Martin Ofono, another displaced person, added, “This is the only place we feel government can hear us. Without land and a safe settlement, we cannot go anywhere.”
The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, through Minister Sam Mayanja, had earlier pledged to resolve the disputes and provide rightful land titles to the affected families within three months. The displaced residents say they are still awaiting the promised intervention.
Meanwhile, security has been heightened around the RDC’s office as the deadline approaches, with fears of possible confrontation should the residents resist eviction. Currently, authorities are restricting access into the area, allowing only exits.
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