EDITOR
Gomba Magistrates’ Court on Thursday remanded Rukiga District Deputy Resident District Commissioner (DRDC), Ivan Kamuntu Ssemakula Majambere, to prison until December 3, 2024, over charges tied to land grabbing. Majambere, whose arrest was facilitated by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, faces multiple charges, including Conspiracy to Defraud, Stealing Cattle, and Criminal Trespass.
Majambere and his accomplices, who remain at large, are accused of forcefully taking possession of approximately 300 acres of farmland (Block 75, Plot 2) in Gomba District in August 2023. The land is legally owned by 75-year-old Frank Rushanganwa, who has held the title deed since 2003.
The prosecution alleges that during the illegal seizure, Majambere and his associates stole 157 cows valued at UGX 318 million. The livestock was reportedly transported to an undisclosed location. Majambere claims he purchased a portion of the land in 2020 from a co-accused, Amos Mwesigye, who also alleges he bought the entire property in 2018. However, neither Majambere nor Mwesigye has provided evidence to substantiate their claims.
Further investigations revealed that Majambere and Mwesigye allegedly sold parts of the disputed land to unsuspecting buyers to consolidate their occupation. Despite a court-issued eviction order against Mwesigye in March 2024, Majambere and his associates reportedly continued to threaten Mzee Rushanganwa, compelling SHACU to intervene.
Appearing before the Gomba Magistrates’ Court, Majambere denied the charges, asserting that he had complied with court orders and was being unfairly accused without his side of the story being heard. “I am a law-abiding citizen and have always respected the law. I urge the authorities to listen to my account and ensure my rights are protected,” Majambere stated.
Majambere appealed to President Yoweri Museveni, requesting intervention and protection of his rights. He insisted that the accusations against him were baseless and politically motivated.
The case has drawn widespread attention, with anti-corruption advocates praising SHACU’s swift action. “This case highlights the need for strict measures to safeguard landowners and uphold justice for victims of land grabbing,” said a spokesperson from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit.
The case will return to court on December 3, 2024, as investigations into the alleged crimes continue.
