Simpson M
The High Court in Rukungiri is scheduled to visit Ruhinda Sub-County tomorrow, September 13, 2024, to inspect lands where residents allege damage occurred during a wetland restoration project by Rukungiri District officials.
This follows a directive from Resident Judge Tom Chemutai of the Rukungiri High Court, emphasizing the need for a firsthand assessment before proceeding with the case to ensure an informed decision regarding the disputed wetlands.
According to a letter dated September 3, 2024, signed by Her Worship Oliver Nantamu, the Assistant Registrar of the Rukungiri High Court, and addressed to village chairpersons of the affected areas, the trial judge from the High Court of Uganda’s Rukungiri office will be visiting the disputed land on September 13, 2024, at 10 a.m.
Counsel Arinaitwe Peter, managing partner of Arinaitwe Peter & Co. Advocates, who is leading the legal team for the residents, underscored the importance of this visit, suggesting it would help clarify the conflicting claims in the case.
The residents have filed a lawsuit against the Rukungiri District Local Government and three government officials, accusing them of unlawfully destroying property during wetland demarcation and restoration efforts in Ruhinda Sub-County. The legal team is seeking a declaration of illegality, violation of human rights, and compensation totaling 5 billion Ugandan shillings for the affected residents.
One of the lead complainants, Johnbosco Turyahabwe, has called on residents whose property was affected to attend the site visit by High Court officials for the assessment. The affected areas include Rwamugooma, Kichwamba, Burombe, Kashenyi, and others.
