Jinja: David Livingstone Zijjan, the Member of Parliament representing Butembe constituency in Jinja district, is facing legal action after allegedly refusing to hand over a land title certificate for a piece of land he sold to Fatima Helpers Company Limited, a community organization that empowers individuals with disabilities. Zijjan also serves as the Dean of Independent legislators in Uganda’s 11th Parliament.
Reports suggest that in October 2013, Zijjan, who is also a born-again preacher, received UGX 220 million from the organization in exchange for his land located on Second Lane Muvule Crescent, Plot Number 18 in Jinja City. However, he has declined to provide the land title to the organization’s authorities, leaving them with unanswered questions and concerns.
The organization has responded to this alarming situation by filing a civil suit case in Jinja High Court, seeking justice in this matter. Represented by their defense lawyer, Sharif Ssemaganda, the concerned parties are requesting the court to summon Hon. Zijjan to explain what they view as fraudulent behavior.
The court proceedings, presided over by Justice Faridah Shamirah Nantambi, have been adjourned to November 3, 2023, for further hearings. Zijjan’s legal representation was provided by Counsel Daniel Mundumbusi from Muzusa and Company Advocates, who informed the court that his client couldn’t attend due to parliamentary duties.
According to Ssemaganda, Zijjan had received full payment for his property and had promised to deliver the land title within 30 days after vacating the premises. Unfortunately, he has yet to fulfill this commitment, leading to growing concerns and legal action.
“We attempted to engage him to amicably resolve the issue, but our efforts were in vain. The bank has also expressed interest in the same title, possibly as a loan collateral,” noted Counsel Ssemaganda.
Despite our efforts, this publication was unable to reach Hon. Zijjan for a comment on the matter.