Zadock Amanyisa | Tayari News
KAMPALA – The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa has distanced himself from claims that he owns land in St. Balikuddembe Market commonly known as Owino Market in Kampala.
Tayebwa said Thursday that reports connecting him and his office to the developments at Owino are false and should be disregarded in all ways possible.
“I have seen various social media posts and received numerous inquiries seeking clarification on my alleged involvement in the recent partial demolition exercise around St. Balikuddembe Market (commonly known as Owino Market), particularly since one of the affected plots is said to be registered under my name.”
The Ruhinda North Member of Parliament said in a statement that he legally obtained a plot in Nakivubo in 2018, but he later gave it to Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) for development at an agreed fee and has since then not owned any land in the area.
“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 like anyone else.”
“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.”
Tayebwa said that as a result, he no longer owns “the said land and holds no interest whatsoever in it. I have no legal claim, control, or involvement in that plot today.”
He dispelled any basis for him to evict anyone or participate in any demolition on land that does not belong to him, explaining that the recent events around the market are unfortunate for the affected vendors, and he sympathises with their plight.
“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 clarified, adding that he remains committed to transparency and the rule of law.