Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has publicly denied any involvement in the recent partial demolition exercise at St. Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino Market, following widespread speculation on social media linking him to the affected land.
In a press release dated March 12, 2026, Tayebwa clarified that while he had obtained a lease for a plot in the Nakivubo area in 2018, the land was later taken over by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) for strategic activities and public purposes.
He emphasized that he no longer owns the land and has no legal claim or involvement in any demolition activities taking place on the site.
“When I submitted building plans for approval, KCCA informed me that the land was required for their public projects. I accepted their compensation offer, and KCCA took possession approximately three years ago,” Tayebwa stated.
He stressed that the recent demolitions around the market have no connection to him and that he sympathizes with vendors affected by the exercise.
Tayebwa also addressed claims suggesting that his lease acquisition was influenced by his current position as Deputy Speaker. He clarified that the lease was obtained years before assuming any ministerial or parliamentary office, underscoring that the process followed all formal and legal procedures and fees were duly paid.
“I remain committed to transparency and the rule of law,” Tayebwa concluded.
The Deputy Speaker’s statement seeks to quell public speculation and reinforce his commitment to lawful conduct amid ongoing concerns over land ownership disputes and enforcement actions in Kampala’s busy market areas.
Local authorities have continued demolition and regulation efforts aimed at formalizing unauthorized structures around the city.