Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, has threatened to take legal action against the Government and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) if families affected by the Kiteezi Landfill disaster are not adequately compensated.
The tragedy, which claimed the lives of 35 people, has drawn widespread criticism, with Ssenyonyi accusing both authorities of negligence.
Speaking to the media, Ssenyonyi condemned the Government’s response, particularly the financial aid offered to the bereaved families, which he described as grossly insufficient.
“The Shs5 million given to the families is not enough to even cover the burial expenses, let alone compensate for the loss of a loved one,” Ssenyonyi stated. “This is not compensation at all.” he said
He demanded that the Government move swiftly to compensate the affected families and restore their livelihoods.
Ssenyonyi warned that failure to act would result in legal action, supported by the opposition, against the Government and KCCA.
“There were clear warnings about the dangers at the landfill, but they were ignored, leading to this tragedy. The Government must be held accountable,” he added.
Ssenyonyi also criticized the lack of a comprehensive plan to manage garbage in the city, pointing out that the situation could lead to further disasters.
He questioned why the 136-acre site in Ddundu, Mukono, purchased for waste management, has remained underutilized for years.
“People are stuck with garbage in their homes and in the city. This is another disaster waiting to happen,” Ssenyonyi warned.
The Opposition Leader urged the Government to address the nation with a clear plan for waste management and recycling, emphasizing the need to turn garbage into energy as KCCA has previously proposed. He also called on those overseeing the recovery efforts at Kiteezi to continue their work until all missing persons are accounted for, allowing families to find closure.
“It is a sad state of affairs that in 2024, people are still dying under heaps of garbage,” Ssenyonyi lamented. “In serious countries, garbage is recycled and turned into valuable products. We need to see such efforts here.”
Ssenyonyi’s remarks come as the families of the 28 people still missing from the Kiteezi tragedy anxiously await news of their loved ones. He urged the Government to listen to the concerns of the affected families and to act decisively to prevent future tragedies.
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