In the wake of the oil discovery in the Albertine graben in 2004, various companies embarked on land acquisition for exploration activities, leading to compensation of affected locals in both kind and cash.
However, in Buliisa, tensions have flared as 42 households rejected their compensation, claiming undervaluation of their land.
Total Energies, responsible for the Tilenga oil project, sought court intervention for the forceful eviction of these households, urging their compensation funds to be deposited with the government or court.
After numerous legal proceedings, the court approved the eviction on December 8, 2023, catching the affected families by surprise, and receiving the notice merely 24 hours before the ruling.
Efforts to appeal the decision have been thwarted, with their lawyer, Kato Tumusiime, citing court reluctance to hear their case.
Frustrated by the lack of legal recourse, the aggrieved parties resorted to a peaceful demonstration outside the court premises, demanding a fair hearing and justice.
Marching with placards bearing messages of discontent, the residents emphasized their willingness to cooperate with the project but insisted on fair treatment and proper valuation of their land.
Their leader, Fred Mwesigwa, urged the court to reconsider the eviction order, highlighting the plight of 42 households facing homelessness.
Despite their peaceful protest, police forcibly removed them from the court premises after three hours, citing minor technicalities in their petition.
Hoima Resident City Commissioner Badru Mugabi received their petition, advising against demonstrations and assuring to deliver it to the Chief Justice and the President’s office.
While acknowledging their frustration, Mugabi urged the residents to follow legal procedures, emphasizing the importance of petitioning the court for a fair resolution.
