Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has issued a clarification regarding his alleged involvement in the recent partial demolitions around St. Balikuddembe Market (Owino Market) in Kampala, following claims circulating on social media linking him to one of the affected plots.
In a statement released on Thursday, Tayebwa said although he once held a lease for land in the Nakivubo area, he no longer owns or has any interest in the property.
Tayebwa explained that he legally acquired the lease in 2018 through the established procedures available to all citizens.
“I applied, followed the stipulated procedures and paid all the required fees like any other citizen,” he said.
However, when he later submitted building plans for approval, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) informed him that the land was required for strategic public activities.
According to Tayebwa, KCCA subsequently offered to compensate him for the land, an offer he accepted. The authority later took possession of the property about 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,” he stated.
Tayebwa emphasized that he therefore has no connection to the recent demolition activities around the market.
“Consequently, there is absolutely no basis for me to evict anyone or participate in any demolition on land that does not belong to me,” he said.
While expressing sympathy for vendors affected by the demolition exercise, the Deputy Speaker said he was not involved in the operations carried out in the area.
He also dismissed claims suggesting that he acquired the land due to his current position in government, noting that he secured the lease before becoming Deputy Speaker and at a time when he held no ministerial office.
“I obtained the lease in 2018, long before I assumed the role of Deputy Speaker and when I held no position that could influence such transactions,” he said.
Tayebwa reiterated his commitment to transparency and adherence to the rule of law.
