Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has clarified that he no longer owns land near St. Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino, following public concern over recent demolitions in the area.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Tayebwa said he had received numerous inquiries on social media linking him to the demolition exercise after reports indicated that one of the affected plots was previously registered in his name.
Tayebwa explained that he legally obtained a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018 through the established procedures.
“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 the requisite fees,” he said.
However, he said that when he later submitted building plans for approval, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) informed him that the land was required for strategic public purposes.
According to Tayebwa, KCCA offered to compensate him for the land, which he accepted, and the authority took possession of the property about three years ago.
“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 said.
He added that he therefore had no role in the recent eviction or demolition around the market.
“The recent events around the market are unfortunate for the affected vendors, and I sympathise with their plight, but I have no connection to the demolition of that night,” Tayebwa said.
The Deputy Speaker also dismissed claims that he acquired the land due to his current position in government, noting that he obtained the lease in 2018, before becoming Deputy Speaker.
The clarification comes amid controversy surrounding the land after reports emerged that the same property was recently allocated to city businessman Ham Kiggundu by KCCA.
The developments have sparked debate over the ownership and management of land around the busy downtown market, where recent demolitions have affected several vendors.
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