Campaigning Lc I Chairpersons Barred From Land Transactions Until Polls End

The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development has issued a directive temporarily barring Local Council I (LC I) chairpersons seeking re-election from participating in land-related transactions. This measure is intended to safeguard the integrity of land dealings and prevent potential fraud and disputes during the ongoing election period.

The public notice, issued Thursday, instructs all campaigning LC I chairpersons to cease witnessing, endorsing, recommending, or overseeing any land transactions until the electoral process is finished. Campaigns for village chairperson elections are in their final days, with polling scheduled for July 28. The ministry stated this advisory is a precautionary step to minimize risks of irregularities.

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The advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure to safeguard the integrity of land transactions during this transition period and to minimise the risk of disputes, fraud, or other irregularities that may arise.

Members of the public are advised against relying on campaigning LC I chairpersons for services such as witnessing sale agreements, verifying ownership, or handling boundary disputes. For urgent land matters, individuals are encouraged to consult qualified legal practitioners or use other lawful channels until the elections are over. The ministry urged patience, noting that this precaution will help prevent costly mistakes and protect the interests of all parties involved.

Although LC I chairpersons do not possess the legal authority to transfer land ownership or issue titles, they are frequently consulted due to their local knowledge and community standing. They often assist in confirming seller identities, identifying boundaries, and witnessing sale agreements, providing a layer of community-level verification. However, legal experts caution that these endorsements offer only local credibility and do not replace formal legal requirements under Uganda's land laws. Buyers must still conduct thorough due diligence. Elections for LC I chairpersons are set for July 28, followed by LC II elections on August 10.

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The Ministry urges the public to exercise patience until the election process is concluded. This precaution will help prevent costly mistakes and safeguard the interests of all parties.