Mpigi Deputy RDC Warns Village Leaders Against Land Fraud

Newly elected village chairpersons in Mpigi have been put on notice by Deputy Resident District Commissioner Yahaya Katunze Kavuma, who has cautioned them against participating in land fraud. Speaking at a meeting with leaders in Kituntu Sub-county, Kavuma stressed that village chairpersons are pivotal in preventing residents from losing their land, a persistent issue in the district affecting various vulnerable groups.

Kavuma highlighted that some land disputes stem from village leaders allegedly collaborating with residents, family members, and other officials to facilitate fraudulent land deals. He pointed out that betrayal, both within families and by some village leaders, coupled with corruption at higher levels, exacerbates land conflicts.

“The country is not doing well. Let us stop pretending. It is rotting and collapsing. Corruption is not the only problem; land-related conflicts are also a serious problem, and we are the ones causing them,” Kavuma stated, urging leaders to serve with integrity and avoid past mistakes.

He underscored the crucial position of village chairpersons, noting that land transactions at the community level often require their direct involvement through signatures or stamps. This makes their role indispensable in thwarting land fraud.

“How can a land fraudster operate without the knowledge of the village chairperson? Is there any land that can be transferred or sold in a village without the signature or stamp of the village chairperson? This means that village chairpersons have a big role in preventing land fraud,” he added.

The Deputy RDC also warned leaders against using their positions for personal enrichment, reminding them that public service is about serving communities, not accumulating wealth. He advised patience for legitimate opportunities and sternly warned that security agencies would not tolerate leaders facilitating land fraud.

Kavuma urged the chairpersons to hold regular village meetings, listen to residents’ concerns, and help resolve disputes, some of which originate within families. He also implored them to “avoid corruption at all costs,” likening it to the devil and a major impediment to service delivery and development.

The warning comes amidst concerns that some newly elected village chairpersons may have ties to land brokers, potentially influencing their actions in exchange for electoral support. Kavuma reminded leaders that the voters who elected them also hold them accountable and can remove them if they fail in their duties.

Source: Nile Post