Land dispute turns deadly in Kisoro, one person killed

4 April 2025, 11:55

By Uziah Tusaasire

The incident occurred on 3 April 2025 at an unspecified time. After committing the crime, the suspect surrendered himself at Bunagana Police Station around midday, where he was immediately arrested and charged.

Police in Kisoro district are investigating the murder of a 53-year-old man, allegedly killed by his younger brother following a long-standing land dispute.

The deceased, identified as Evarist Nzabarinda, was reportedly murdered by his 35-year-old brother, Zaire Maniriho. Both men were residents of Gakoro cell, Gasasa ward, Bunagana town council.

According to the Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson, Elly Maate, the incident occurred on 3 April 2025 at an unspecified time. After committing the crime, the suspect surrendered himself at Bunagana Police Station around midday, where he was immediately arrested and charged.

The police statement indicates that the brothers had been living together in the same house but had an ongoing land dispute that had caused tension for a long time.

A post-mortem examination was conducted, witness statements were recorded, and the crime scene was processed and documented by the Officer in Charge (O.C.) of Bunagana Police Station and his team.

Authorities have urged communities to resolve disputes peacefully through local leaders and legal channels, rather than resorting to violence.

Once investigations are complete, the suspect will be arraigned in court to face murder charges.

According to a report titled ‘Research on Land Conflicts and Resolution in Uganda’ released in December 2014 by the Grassroots Justice Network, land disputes are widespread in Uganda, affecting between 33% and 50% of landholders. Land disputes are the most significant form of conflict in Uganda, with many escalating into violence. These disputes are prevalent throughout the country, with the highest concentration occurring in Northern Uganda, as well as parts of Hoima and Amuru districts, where oil has recently been discovered and the government has allocated large tracts of land.