Lubega records statement over disputed bus park

KAMPALA. Businessman Drake Lubega yesterday recorded a statement before the land probe team in regard to accusations of fraudulent acquisition of the land on which Qualicel Bus Terminal in Kampala sits.
Mr Lubega appeared in response to summons by the commission chaired by Justice Catherine Bamugemereire.
On Tuesday the commission halted construction works on the disputed land until the matter is determined.
The commission’s letter dated October 23, indicates that it is investigating Mr Lubega’s acquisition of interests in the said land following several complaints received from members of Uganda Bus Operators Association Investments Limited (UBOAI).
“I have recorded a statement to the commission and that is all. These are small issues because I am developing my land which I purchased long time ago,” Mr Lubega told journalists after appearing before the commission.
He insisted that there is no order blocking him from carrying out developments on the land.
UBOAI accuses Mr Lubega of colluding with Lands officials, in particular Mr Robert Opio, the acting commissioner of Land Registration and interdicted commissioner Sarah Kulata, to deprive them of their interest in the land.

Defying court directive
Mr Hamimu Sentongo, the UBOAI chairperson, told the commission that Mr Lubega, in defiance of the commission’s directive not to make developments on the disputed land until investigations are done, has since fenced it off and commenced excavation in preparation for construction.
The matter has been in and out of court for years but has yet to be resolved.