BIG STORY: Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa Linked to Controversial Night Demolition of Part of Owino Market

A fresh controversy has emerged in Kampala after part of the famous St. Balikudembe Market, popularly known as Owino Market, was reportedly demolished during a night operation. The market, one of the busiest trading centers in the city, woke up to confusion and tension as traders found sections of the area damaged.

Sources close to the matter claim that Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, is among four individuals being linked to the controversial demolition. Others mentioned include Minsa Kabanda, her deputy Kabuye Kyofatogabe, and city businessman Hamis Kigundu, commonly known as Ham.

According to trusted sources, the group allegedly played a role in changing the lease ownership of the land where the market sits. The sources claim that the lease was recently transferred into the name of Tayebwa, raising serious concerns among traders and city residents.

Reports indicate that the lease change was processed last week. However, it is alleged that the transaction was presented in a way that suggested the Deputy Speaker had owned the lease since 2012. This claim has raised questions about how the process was handled and whether proper procedures were followed.

The land in question is the very location that houses the popular Owino Market in downtown Kampala. The market is known for hosting thousands of traders who depend on it for their daily livelihoods, making any changes to its ownership or structure a matter of great public interest.

Many traders have expressed shock and fear over the developments, saying the sudden demolition carried out at night has left them worried about the future of their businesses. Some have called on authorities to clarify what exactly is happening and whether the market will remain open to traders.

As the story continues to unfold, more details are expected to emerge regarding the alleged lease changes and the circumstances surrounding the night demolition. Authorities and the individuals mentioned have yet to issue detailed public statements on the matter.