Nakasongola prison authorities have appealed to the district council to stop settlements on the adjacent hill citing security reasons. The prison sits on 800-acres of land in Nakasongola town council and is home to 1400 inmates, against the recommended capacity of 274 inmates. The facility also hosts 165 prison staff.
Evans Rock Abio, the Officer in Charge of Nakasongola Prisons, says that their safety is at stake because of the people occupying an adjacent hill in Wakibombo village. Abio explains that the settlers on the hilltop can view the entire prison, which compromises its safety. Abio wants Nakasongola district to find a way of restricting settlements on the hillto ensure that the security of the facility is not compromised.
Sarah Nakate, the Deputy Speaker of Nakasongola, says that she tasked the LC V chairperson to investigate the matter and report back to the council in their next sitting.
Sam Kigula, the LC 5 Chairman of Nakasongola, says that they need time to visit the hill and find out its ownership as well as how people acquired land there before they can advise on the next course of action.
He explains that security takes precedent over other activities and they will decide their next course of action together with the District Security Committee. Robert Wasswa, the LC 1 Chairman of Wakibombo village says that the hill belongs to Buganda Kingdom and has no permanent settlers with exception of people involved in stone quarrying as well as tree cutting.
Gerald Kyanjo, the Buganda Kingdom representative in Buruuli county, says that prison authorities erred when they sought help from the district instead of his office, which has powers over the hill. Kyanjo has asked Nakasongola Prisons and District to consult his office before taking any decision on the matter.
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