Kampala businessman charged over contested land in Luuka

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An 80-year-old widow and her family in Luuka district have expressed relief after a Kampala city-based businessman, Fred Bahati, was formally charged in court over a disputed 36-acre plot they have battled to retain.

The development is a dramatic reversal in the case, as Bahati now faces criminal charges just months after the family themselves were jailed over similar accusations he filed against them.

Fred Bahati. (Courtesy)

Bahati appeared before Grade One Magistrate Gillian Agwang at Luuka magistrates court, charged with three counts: Malicious damage to property, forceful entry, and theft of crops on the contested land. The charges follow a directive from Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Jane Frances Abodo, who ordered Bahati’s prosecution after the widow, Eliviada Mugala, and her relatives filed counter-accusations. This turn of events came after local authorities and advocates for widows and orphans intervened, citing the family’s allegations of mistreatment and false charges.

The conflict began five years ago when Bahati claimed ownership of the land Mugala and her late husband, Yowaasi Kintu, had reportedly occupied for over 30 years after purchasing it from multiple sellers. Mugala recounted how Bahati allegedly demolished their home, cleared crops and seized the property, while she and her children, including Irene Kawendeke, Richard Isabirye and Christopher Gwandagala, were remanded in Iganga Prison for five months on trespassing charges Bahati had filed in both Luuka and Iganga courts.



Seeking redress, the family approached the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and Redeem International, an NGO supporting widows and orphans. Damalie Nafyono, the organisation’s legal officer, stated their investigation confirmed the family’s rightful ownership: "The crops Bahati accused them of stealing were theirs, and all evidence supports their claim."

She added that Bahati repeatedly challenged the prosecution at DPP offices in Iganga, Jinja and Kampala, but each upheld the charges and exonerated the family.

"We will pursue this legally until they regain peace on their land," Nafyono said.

Deputy RDC Hassan Sembalira previously suggested Bahati may have forged land documents, noting failed mediation attempts before the case reached court. During his arraignment, Bahati denied all charges and was granted bail at shillings one million cash, with sureties bonded at the same amount each. The case adjourned to September 29, 2025, for further proceedings.

Bahati maintains the land belonged to his late father, Difaasi Lugondo, claiming Mugala’s family initially requested temporary settlement but later refused to vacate.

Meanwhile, a separate civil case at Iganga High Court before Justice David Batema will ultimately determine ownership.

Mugala and her children hailed the charges against Bahati as a step toward justice, expressing hope they can finally return to the land they call home after years of turmoil.