UNRA probe: ULC boss summoned over Kabaka’s land

Mr Jonathan Wazimbe, the former UNRA station engineer for Moroto, takes an oath before his appearance at the commission of inquiry. PHOTO BY OPIO SAM CALEB

Kampala. The chairperson of the Uganda Land Commission (ULC) has been summoned to answer why he leased out Kabaka’s land to individuals who are demanding compensation from the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA).
Mr Baguma Isoke is expected before the commission of inquiry into the alleged mismanagement at UNRA today to record a statement in respect to titles issued to land compensation claimants for Munyonyo Spur and Entebbe-Kampala Expressway.
According to the summons, the land under controversy registered as block 255 on plots 97 and 98 had been returned to the Kabaka of Buganda by the government.
Last week, the commission heard that the Kabaka has not been compensated over Shs10 billion for the land to be used for road projects by UNRA.
Mr David Male Kyewalabye, the chief executive officer of the Buganda Land Board, testified that UNRA is continuing to compensate leasehold tenants and bibanja tenants while the landlord is completely ignored.
According to the commission lead Counsel, Mr Andrew Kasirye, the commission is also summoning the Chief Government Valuer, Mr Gilbert Kermundu, to explain the implication of his junior officer Moses Magara who approved Shs18 billion as compensation to businessman Ephraim Ntaganda through his Excellent Assorted Manufacturers.
He said the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Mr Gabindadde-Musoke, who supervises the Chief Government Valuer, will explain governance challenges regarding his supervisory roles in UNRA projects.

THE BACKGROUND
The Commission chaired by Justice Catherine Bamugemereire is inquiring into allegations of mismanagement, abuse of office and corruption acts at UNRA in connection with financial management systems, complaints in regard to acquisition of land and methodologies of compensation.