Join NUP to fight NRM, Bobi Wine tells Lubigi Victims
By Our reporter
LUBIGI – National Unity Platform (NUP), the leading opposition party has condemned the demolition of houses and other illegal structures constructed on the Lubigi wetland in Nansana, Wakiso District. According to Kyagulanyi Ssentamu aka Bobi Wine, the President of NUP, the exercise was selective targeted at the poor.
“I have been following with shock and concern the ongoing demolition of low-income earners’ houses in Nansana-Lubigi ostensibly “because they were built in a wetland,” Kyagulanyi posted on X handle.
Adding, “Many of the victims now left homeless had stayed on that land for decades, right under the nose of the regime until it just abruptly woke up and razed their homes without warning. Indeed, it is critically important to protect our environment, especially in light of global warming. However, it ceases being about protecting the environment when the regime singles out the homes of the poor for demolition while turning a blind eye to infrastructure constructed by the rich and regime supporters in the same areas.”
He said there are several hotels, factories, and homes constructed in wetlands such as the one along Yusuf Lule Road, Busega, Namanve, and elsewhere.
“Even in Nansana, petrol stations built right in the wetland with the regime’s approval have been spared, unlike the homes around them. The list could go on. These glaring contradictions are how the regime handles the poor, on the one hand, and the rich, on the other hand, should join all of us in action to work harder for a country that will truly guarantee equal rights and treatment for all under the law,” he further explains.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) embarked on the destruction that has left residents distraught and furious, accusing NEMA of failing to give them adequate notice and time to vacate the area.
The operation left residents distraught and furious, accusing NEMA of failing to give them adequate notice and time to vacate the area.
The scene was filled with cries, anger, and self-deprecation as bulldozers and other heavy machinery tore through the structures that had been home to many families.
The wetland, designated as a protected area, has been the center of a bitter conflict between residents and environmental authorities.
One of the most striking figures in the crowd was a retired soldier, only identified as Captain Ssempebwa, who arrived dressed in full military uniform.
Visibly upset, Captain Williams Ssempebwa questioned the demolition crew, demanding to know why he was not informed of the impending destruction of his home.
“I have been away attending to other things in Kiboga, and now I find myself homeless without a warning,” says Capt Ssempebwa.
Another dramatic confrontation occurred when the demolition team arrived at the residence of John Wasswa, who told the team he was a lawyer and knew the law.
He refused to leave his house and challenged them, stating that they had no right to demolish his property without prior notification.
“If you think you have power, then put this house down because you did not inform me,” he said as he defiantly entered his house but soldiers pulled him out just before putting the entire structure on the ground with his property inside.
Residents many of whom were in tears, complained that NEMA had acted without giving them any opportunity to prepare.
They expressed their frustration and sorrow, explaining that most had invested heavily in their homes, often borrowing money to purchase the land and construct their houses.
In response, NEMA maintained that the evictions were justified, stating that all settlers had been illegally occupying the wetland and had received prior warnings to evacuate.
“This is not a surprise eviction. We have repeatedly warned the settlers that they are on protected land,” said NEMA executive director Barirege Akankwasah.
As the operation continues affected residents still have hope of compensation or any arrangement for relocation.
