Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has called for a balanced approach to environmental conservation and human rights in response to recent evictions in the Rubigi wetlands.
During a parliamentary session on Wednesday this week, she highlighted the inconsistencies in enforcement and the need for a fair and transparent process.In an impassioned address to Parliament, Speaker Anita Among criticized the recent evictions from the Rubigi wetlands, urging a more equitable approach to environmental enforcement.
"While we should not interfere with NEMA’s enforcement duties, it is perplexing why they permit individuals to develop and settle in these areas only to later demolish their properties," she stated.
Among’s remarks come in the wake of the National Environment Management Authority’s (NEMA) recent actions to clear the Rubigi wetlands of settlers, which have left many residents and business owners displaced.
Over the past weeks, NEMA has been actively evicting people from areas including Ganda, Nansana, and Rubigi, sparking significant controversy and legal challenges.
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Speaker Among pointed out the apparent double standards in NEMA’s enforcement.
"We see malls built in wetlands that remain untouched, while homes and businesses in Rubigi face demolition.
This selective enforcement undermines trust in regulatory bodies," she noted.
The evictions have also drawn criticism for the treatment of political figures during oversight visits.
Among condemned the police’s use of tear gas on members of Parliament, including Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, during their visit to the affected areas.
"The police's response to Joel Ssenyonyi and his team was both unfortunate and unnecessary," she said.
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Residents of Nansana Municipality, who have been evicted, argue that their removal is unlawful. Through their legal representatives, they claim to have been paying ground rent and hold proper registration with the Buganda Land Board as rightful landowners.
This has raised questions about the transparency and fairness of NEMA's actions.In a bid to address these issues, Among suggested a review of current policies and the implementation of a more comprehensive approach that balances environmental protection with social justice.
"Environmental conservation is crucial, but it should not come at the cost of human dignity and lawful ownership. We need policies that protect both our natural resources and the rights of our citizens," she emphasized.
Environmental experts have echoed Among’s concerns, advocating for a participatory approach that includes local communities in conservation efforts.
"Involving residents in the decision-making process can lead to more sustainable and accepted solutions," said Kiwanuka Steven, an environmental policy analyst.
The ongoing debate highlights the complex interplay between environmental conservation and human rights in Uganda. As NEMA continues its enforcement actions, the government faces increasing pressure to ensure that its policies are both environmentally sound and socially just.
