MICHAEL N
Disagreements have erupted among residents of Kanyankwanzi Cell, Eastern Ward, Bikurungu Town Council in Rukungiri District, who are accusing their fellow village mate of blocking an access road used by several families and Bikurungu Seed School.
Residents have criticized their fellow villager, Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana, for fencing off the access road that connects the homes of Ariho Gershom, the elderly Oinebye Lydia, and others to Kakoni Main Road, as well as providing access to Bikurungu Seed School.
The road had been in use for a long time, though without proper maintenance, until the construction of Bikurungu Seed School. During construction, the contractor reportedly held informal negotiations with landowners, including Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana, who agreed to allow access in exchange for compensation. The agreed compensation involved levelling his compound with a grader at a cost of 6 million shillings.
However, after the completion of the school, Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana, whose land borders Kakoni Main Road, allegedly fenced off his section, blocking immediate neighbors and students from accessing the institution through the usual route.
Ephraim Ngabirano, a resident of Kanyankwanzi, expressed concern about students being forced to walk longer distances to reach the school through alternative routes. He accused Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana of sabotaging government programs.
Ariho Gershom, an immediate neighbor to Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana, expressed frustration that his family is now landlocked. He said their efforts to seek dialogue with the accused have been unsuccessful, though they are trying to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
The elderly Oinebye Lydia, another affected resident, accused Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana of secretly encroaching on her land while fencing off the road.
Fred Turyatunga, the LC1 Chairperson of Kanyankwanzi Cell, criticized Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana for avoiding engagement on the matter. He called for calm and urged residents to resolve the issue peacefully to prevent mob justice.
Godfrey Nshabire, the contractor of Bikurungu Seed School, clarified that there was an informal agreement with Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana, and that 6 million shillings was spent on levelling his compound as compensation. He expressed surprise that the road was later closed without the contractor’s knowledge.
His Worship Wallen Kajuna, the Mayor of Bikurungu Town Council, accused Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana of being uncooperative and avoiding meetings. He urged residents to remain patient and follow formal grievance procedures to address the matter.
When contacted by phone for comment, Muhumuza Fred Rubanzana declined to speak, claiming that the matter is before the court. However, residents said they are unaware of any court proceedings and have instead organized a reconciliation meeting scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, 28th February 2026, to which the accused has been formally invited.
