In a recent turn of events, Dr. David Balondemu, Chairman of the Kampala Land Board and Speaker of the Luuka monarchy, found himself entangled in legal troubles. Arrested on October 18, 2023, and subsequently remanded in Luzira prison on October 20, Balondemu was accused of defrauding Korean investors of 2.2 billion Uganda shillings. However, speaking at his thanksgiving ceremony at Gwembuzi Primary School in Bukooma Sub County, Luuka district, Balondemu vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that they were fabricated to tarnish his reputation.
According to Balondemu, the root cause of his arrest lies in his unwavering efforts to thwart the activities of government Mafias attempting to steal public land. He maintained that his commitment to eliminating land theft and protecting wetlands in Kampala became a point of contention, leading to a targeted campaign against him.
Balondemu, attributing the orchestrated charges to his non-Muslim and non-Muganda identity, claimed that his stance against the influential Mafias in Kampala had prompted a retaliatory attack. He expressed confidence in proving his innocence, stating that the charges were baseless and lacking in substance.
Addressing the people of Luuka, Balondemu assured them of his dedication to eradicating poverty through sustainable farming initiatives. He extended gratitude to those who supported him during his time in prison, including the people of Luuka, Luuka Chiefdom, and Luuka North MP Hon. Luke Kyobe Inhensiko.
The thanksgiving ceremony witnessed the presence of notable figures, including ministers from Luuka Chiefdom and Busoga Kingdom, led by Owek. Richard Mafumo, the Minister of Culture. Luuka North MP Hon. Luke Kyobe Inensiko urged unity among the people of Luuka for the district’s development.
Taking a defiant stance against those hindering Luuka’s progress, Luuka District Chairman Simon Wakaze emphasized the readiness to combat any forces impeding the region’s development. Wakaze urged the people of Luuka to unite against obstacles hindering both Luuka and Busoga at large.
Echoing similar sentiments, Luuka District Speaker Ronald Bikumbi asserted that he would not succumb to intimidation. Prime Minister of Luuka Chiefdom, Hon. Lwigo David Iggulu Isabirye Ngulungu, expressed surprise at those attempting to suppress discussions about the challenges facing Luuka and Busoga, vowing that such intimidation would not be tolerated.
Chairman Taitika Hussein, who leads the LC III chairmen of Luuka district and also serves as the Chairman of Bulongo Sub County, reassured Dr. David Balondemu that challenges are part of everyone’s journey, underscoring resilience in the face of adversity.
