The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has pledged urgent government intervention to address the ongoing crisis of more than 3,500 displaced residents in Kasese District who have been camped at the Resident District Commissioner’s (RDC) office for over four months.
While addressing Parliament on September 4, 2025, Dr. Baryomunsi acknowledged the worsening humanitarian situation and confirmed that efforts were underway to find a sustainable solution.
“I am aware of the people in Kasese camped at the RDC’s office, and the government has been working to resettle them,” he stated.
The issue was formally raised by Bukonjo West MP Atkins Katusabe, who called on the government to act swiftly to prevent further loss of life. Katusabe cited dire conditions at the site, including severe starvation and violence, and mourned the death of Stephen Mohindo Esenge, who reportedly died from injuries sustained in an alleged assault. Others remain critically ill and are struggling to access food and medical care.
The displaced residents had originally been ordered to vacate the RDC’s premises by the Kasese District Security Committee on August 19, citing hygiene and security risks. However, they refused to leave, insisting that Minister Sam Mayanja fulfill his earlier promise to resettle them within three months—a deadline that has not yet passed.
Efforts to resolve the crisis have been slowed by a series of challenges, including legal disputes over two parcels of land identified for resettlement and the recent transfer of the deputy RDC who had been overseeing coordination.
Local leaders from the National Unity Platform (NUP) have accused the government of neglect and called on civil society organizations to amplify the voices of the displaced. Meanwhile, on September 3, the affected community submitted a formal complaint to the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), implicating the RDC’s office and the Attorney General in alleged human rights violations. The UHRC has launched an investigation into the claims.
In Parliament, Dr. Baryomunsi announced plans to summon the RDC and other stakeholders, promising a fact-finding mission and appropriate action.
“The government does not condone actions that undermine public peace, and appropriate measures will be taken,” he affirmed.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among applauded MP Katusabe’s efforts and urged fellow legislators to guide citizens in reporting abuses and defending land rights, stressing that no Ugandan should be denied justice or dignity due to displacement.
