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The Magistrates’ Court in Kasese has taken the traditional leader of the Basongora community into custody due to a land dispute. Kashagama Ndahura II intervened to halt an alleged illegal land sale among his subjects, which led to a court petition against him. Following his failure to adhere to court summons dated February 13, 2024, Kashagama was remanded pending judgment, scheduled for March 12th. He faces a potential five year prison sentence for alleged damages amounting to 10 million Ugandan shillings.
The arrest of Kashagama Ndahura II has stirred outcry among the Basongora community, who claim that their king is being unjustly detained. Their demands for his release have been articulated through a statement published on the Kingdom’s official website. The statement highlights Kashagama’s efforts in defending ancestral lands designated for the compensation and resettlement of the endangered Basongora community. He has been actively involved in protecting communal lands from illegal encroachments and land-grabbing, establishing initiatives like the Basongora Land Board and Community Trust Fund to preserve these lands for future generations.
The land dispute in question revolves around the ownership and administration of over 1000 acres of land, particularly concerning the Bazira estate. Conflicts have arisen between certain community members and the Basongora, whom Kashagama represents.
Previously, Kashagama faced a criminal matter where he was acquitted of malicious damage to property by the Kasese Chief Magistrates’ Court. However, the appeal process took a turn against him, with the Fort Portal High Court appeals judge allegedly omitting crucial evidence and misrepresenting key facts. Despite his efforts to defend community lands and rights, Kashagama now awaits judgment that could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
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The Basongora community is calling for a fair and just treatment of Kashagama, emphasizing the importance of reviewing the case with thoroughness and fairness. They urge concerned parties to intervene urgently to rectify what they perceive as a legal oversight and to safeguard the rights, culture, and lands of the Basongora community. The community advocates for calm and dialogue, hoping for a resolution that upholds the principles of justice and human rights defended by Kashagama.
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