High Court Rejects Dr Gukiina's Claim on Wakiso Plots, Upholds Speke Hotel Ownership

The High Court Land Division in Uganda has ruled against businessman Dr Peter Musoke Gukiina in his dispute over four plots in Wakiso District. Justice Patricia Basaza Wasswa declared that Speke Hotel 1996 Ltd holds rightful ownership of Busiro Block 443, Plots 49, 52, 74, and 76 in Kongero.

Dr Gukiina could not prove his Kibanja rights on the land, failing to meet the burden of proof on a balance of probabilities. The judge noted a complete lack of testimony from alleged sellers like Samson Matovu, the Nyambalaki family, and Abiba Sebi, or any supporting documents beyond his confirmed holding on Plot 50.

The dispute originated from a 2019 lawsuit where Dr Gukiina accused Sudhir Ruparelia, Erieza Lubojje Kaggwa, Ephraim Ntaganda, Speke Hotel, and the Land Registration Commissioner of trespass, eviction, and property destruction. He claimed to have bought about 1.287 acres through Kibanja purchases.

Although his main claim was rejected, the court acknowledged Speke Hotel’s encroachment on 0.036 hectares (0.09 acres) of Dr Gukiina’s Plot 50 via a concrete perimeter wall. Site visits and witness statements, including from Dr Gukiina and his son, confirmed the intrusion.

Justice Basaza deemed the encroachment minor, opting for monetary compensation over demolition. Dr Gukiina received Shs66 million for the land value and Shs15 million in general damages, totaling Shs81 million.

This decision resolves the prolonged conflict, securing Speke Hotel’s title while providing limited redress to Dr Gukiina.

Source: Daily Monitor