Minister Barugahara during his visit to Bukakata sub county, Masaka district.
Masaka-Former Defence Minister Vincent Ssempijja has been implicated in allegations of illegally disposing of government land, including land hosting a primary school that was reportedly established during his tenure as Masaka District LCV Chairperson.
The allegations were raised during a public accountability meeting (baraza) held at Bakibonga in Bukakata Sub-county, Masaka District, organised by the Minister for Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, as part of his nationwide anti-corruption campaign dubbed “Expose the Corrupt.”
During the meeting, a resident, Charles Sekatawa, alleged that Green Valley Primary School in Kasanje is facing possible demolition after the land on which it sits was allegedly sold to a businessman.
Sekatawa said the school is the only government-supported learning institution serving the surrounding community and has benefited hundreds of pupils over the years.
He further claimed that Ssempijja established the school in 1997 while serving as Masaka District LCV Chairperson, expressing shock that the same individual is now being accused of selling the land.
Ssempijja, who is the father of State Minister for Local Government Justine Namere, was not available to respond to the allegations by press time. Nameere also didnt attend the baraza.
In response to the complaints, Minister Balaam directed the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to investigate the matter, stressing that no individual is above the law.
He said anyone found to have participated in the illegal disposal of public property would be held accountable.
“Ssempijja is my uncle, and I cannot believe he is being accused of selling a government-owned school. I have directed investigators to establish the facts. If it is found that the land was irregularly allocated through the District Land Board, everyone involved will be held responsible and prosecuted,” Balaam said.
Masaka District Chairperson John Kakande also expressed concern over what he described as rampant illegal sales of government land, saying the practice has deprived the district of public assets that should benefit local communities.
Kakande alleged that influential political figures have taken advantage of their positions to dispose of public property without facing consequences.
He cited several disputed properties, including a four-hectare eucalyptus plantation in Senyange Cell, Masaka City, which he said was cut down and sold to unknown individuals. He also referenced two government houses in Masaka and land belonging to the Kijjabwemi Rehabilitation Centre, which he claimed are under threat of being sold.
According to Kakande, the alleged actions of some National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders have tarnished the party’s image and undermined public confidence in government institutions.
Investigations into the allegations are expected to commence following the minister’s directive.
ENDS
