The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has denied any involvement in the recent demolition of part of St. Balikuddembe Market, popularly known as Owino.
In a statement issued on Thursday, although Tayebwa admits to formerly owning a plot of land in the area in 2018 before accepting a compensation from KCCA that took it over around 2023, he refuted social media allegations that he still owns part of the land and was a decision maker in the recent demolition exercise.
Below is his gull statement;
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 (commonly known as Owino 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:
It is true that I obtained a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018. This was done through the formal and legal processes available to any citizen—I applied, followed the stipulated procedures, and paid all requisite fees like anyone else.
When I subsequently submitted building plans for approval, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) informed me that the land was required for their strategic activities and public purposes. KCCA then offered to compensate me and I accepted their proposal. KCCA went ahead and took possession of the land approximately three years ago.
As a result, I no longer own the said land and hold no interest whatsoever in it. I have no legal claim, control, or involvement in that plot today.
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 and at a time when I held no ministerial or an office that could influence such transactions.
I remain committed to transparency and the rule of law. Thank you for your understanding.
Thomas Tayebwa, MP
Deputy Speaker of Parliament
Republic of Uganda
