Kampala, Uganda: The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has issued a clarification distancing himself from the recent demolition around St. Balikuddembe Market, popularly known as Owino, following media reports linking him to the disputed land.
In a statement released on Thursday afternoon, Tayebwa said he had seen and received inquiries alleging that he was involved in the partial demolition of structures around the market because one of the affected plots was previously registered under his name.
However, the Deputy Speaker said he no longer owns the land in question and has had no involvement in the demolition exercise.
Tayebwa explained that he acquired a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018 through what he described as a lawful and transparent process available to any citizen.
“It is true that I obtained a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018. This was done through the formal and legal processes available to any citizen—I applied, followed the stipulated procedures and paid all requisite fees,” Tayebwa said.
He added that the lease was secured long before he assumed the office of Deputy Speaker and at a time when he held no position capable of influencing land allocation.
According to Tayebwa, when he later submitted building plans for approval, Kampala Capital City Authority informed him that the land was required for strategic public purposes. He said the authority offered to compensate him for the property, which he accepted.
“When I subsequently submitted building plans for approval, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) informed me that the land was required for their strategic activities and public purposes. KCCA then offered to compensate me, and I accepted their proposal. KCCA went ahead and took possession of the land approximately three years ago,” he said.
“As a result, I no longer own the said land and hold no interest whatsoever in it. I have no legal claim, control, or involvement in that plot today,” he added.
The Deputy Speaker stressed that he has no legal claim, control or involvement in the plot and therefore cannot be connected to the recent demolition of structures near Owino Market.
“Consequently, there is absolutely no basis for me to evict anyone or participate in any demolition on land that does not belong to me,” Tayebwa said.
He also expressed sympathy for vendors affected by the demolition. “The recent events around the market are unfortunate for the affected vendors, and I sympathize with their plight, but I have no connection to the demolition of that night,” he said.
“For those suggesting that I acquired this land due to my current position as Deputy Speaker of Parliament: Please note that I obtained the lease in 2018, long before I assumed this role and at a time when I held no ministerial or office that could influence such transactions,” Tayebwa emphasized.
The Deputy Speaker reiterated his commitment to transparency and the rule of law, urging the public to rely on verified information regarding the matter.
The clarification comes amid growing public debate following demolition activities around the busy St. Balikuddembe Market, popularly known as Owino, one of Kampala’s largest trading hubs.
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