Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has firmly distanced himself from the controversial overnight demolition at St. Balikuddembe Market (Owino Market), amid swirling social media allegations linking him to the affected land.
The incident unfolded around 10 p.m. on March 7, when unidentified individuals used bulldozers to demolish structures along Ssebaana Road near the Nakivubo Channel boundary.
Over 40 lock-up shops were destroyed, leaving traders devastated and sparking immediate outrage.
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) condemned the action as unauthorised and “reckless,” stating no permits were issued.
Investigations continue to identify those responsible.
Social media posts circulated purported land registry documents suggesting one plot remained under Tayebwa’s name, fueling claims of involvement tied to his position.
Some linked the demolition to businessman Hamis Kiggundu, who later admitted his team carried it out as part of Nakivubo drainage corridor development.
In a statement issued today, Tayebwa addressed the speculation head-on; “It is true that I obtained a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018 through formal and legal processes available to any citizen—I applied, followed procedures, and paid all fees,” he said.
He explained that upon submitting building plans, KCCA informed him the land was needed for strategic public purposes. He accepted compensation, and KCCA took possession about three years ago (around 2023).
“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,” Tayebwa stated.
“There is absolutely no basis for me to evict anyone or participate in any demolition on land that does not belong to me.”
He sympathised with affected vendors but denied any connection to the March 7 action.
Addressing suggestions of influence from his role, he noted: “I obtained the lease in 2018—long before I assumed this role and at a time when I held no ministerial or office that could influence such transactions.”
Tayebwa, elected Deputy Speaker in March 2022, emphasised his commitment to transparency and the rule of law.
Owino Market, Uganda’s largest open-air trading hub, has faced longstanding disputes over ownership, flooding, and redevelopment plans along the Nakivubo corridor.
The latest event highlights ongoing tensions between informal traders, private interests, and public infrastructure needs.
KCCA’s probe continues, with calls for deeper investigations by relevant authorities to resolve lingering ownership questions in Kampala’s key commercial zones.