Tayebwa clarifies on St. Balikuddembe land and recent demolition

12 March 2026, 6:27 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, has addressed concerns over the ownership of land around St. Balikuddembe Market (commonly known as Owino Market) following recent demolitions.

Tayebwa emphasized that he has never ordered the demolition of anyone’s property and currently does not own any plot in the affected area. He acknowledged that he once owned a plot, which was later taken by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and that he was set to be compensated.

“I have seen various social media posts and received numerous inquiries seeking clarification on my alleged involvement in the recent partial demolition exercise around St. Balikuddembe Market, particularly since one of the affected plots is said to be registered under my name. I wish to state the facts clearly and categorically. I obtained a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018, following the formal legal procedures and paying all required fees,” Tayebwa said.

He added that when he submitted building plans for approval, KCCA informed him that the land was needed for public purposes. He accepted their proposal for compensation, and KCCA took possession of the land approximately three years ago. Tayebwa stressed that he now has no legal claim, control, or involvement in the plot.

“Consequently, there is absolutely no basis for me to evict anyone or participate in any demolition on land that does not belong to me. The recent events around the market are unfortunate for the affected vendors, and I sympathize with their plight, but I have no connection to the demolition of that night. For those suggesting that I acquired this land due to my current position as Deputy Speaker of Parliament, please note that I obtained the lease in 2018 long before I assumed this role,” he concluded.